Wendy C. Waugaman

Wendy C. Waugaman, formerly of Humboldt and West Des Moines, IA went home to be with God on Monday, June 18, 2012 after a long and courageous battle with cancer for the past 2 years. She was born on September 13, 1960 in Vermillion, SD to Terry and Verdell Carlson.

Wendy married Lou Waugaman on January 9, 2010. She was president and chief executive officer of American Equity Investment Life Holding Company, and also served as a member of American Equity’s board of directors. She joined American Equity in June 1999 as chief financial officer and general counsel. Prior to joining American Equity, she served as outside corporate counsel for the company from its inception in 1995. Wendy was previously a partner in the firm of Whitfield and Eddy, P.L.C., Des Moines, IA, where she practiced law from 1985 until June 1999. She is also a certified public accountant.

Wendy served on the board of trustees of Buena Vista University, was president of the Des Moines Metro Opera Foundation board of trustees, was president of the Federation of Iowa Insurers and she served on numerous community boards. She received her B.S.B.A. (magna cum laude) from Drake University and a J.D. degree from Notre Dame Law School.

Wendy gave of her time and resources generously. Along with her husband they established the Lou and Wendy Waugaman Fund which supports many youth, cultural and arts organizations.

In addition to her professional accomplishments and philanthropic activities, Wendy enjoyed playing the piano, participating in triathlons, cooking, reading, and travel.

Wendy is survived by her husband, Lou Waugaman, of Waukee, IA; father, Terry (Kay) Carlson of Lake Shore, MN; step-daughters, Brooke Waugaman, Kelsey Waugaman and Andria Oordt of Des Moines, IA; brother, Jim (Kelly) Howard of Humboldt, IA; sisters, Nicole (Jesse) Crum of Newton, IA and Jennifer Carlson of Worcester, MA; and granddaughter, Noel Richardson of Des Moines, IA. She was preceded in death by her mother, Verdell Carlson.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 21, 2012 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines. Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 22 at 11 a.m. at Lutheran Church of Hope, 925 Jordan Creek Parkway in West Des Moines. Burial will follow at Waukee Cemetery.

The strength and beauty with which she has impacted our community and so many lives will continue to reach far, wide and deep.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to The Bright Foundation. Online condolences may be directed to: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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