Charles Baumhover
October 05, 2014
Chuck was born in Dubuque, Iowa, the youngest of seven children, in 1928 at the start of the depression. He had many adventures growing up in Dubuque. As a young boy Chuck and his friends spent a lot of time on the Mississippi River swimming and fishing. During his teenage years he saved his money and took flying lessons, soloing at age 16.
Chuck had always had a great singing voice; throughout high school and in the years following was a member of a Barber Shop Quartet. Chuck joined the US Air Force during the Korean War. For most of his time in the service he was stationed in Cheyenne, Wyoming. While home on a leave he met and married Diane Walsh. Following his discharge from the service the couple moved back to Des Moines, Iowa and raised their family of six children.
During his working years Chuck had a long and successful career in the insurance industry. He started with Blue Cross Blue Shield selling health insurance policies to Iowa farmers. He then transitioned to North Western Mutual where he spent many years selling life insurance. The last third of his career was spent as an agent for The Principal. During his lifetime in Des Moines Chuck has been very active in local politics.
Throughout his adult life Chuck enjoyed many hobbies. He was an avid bird hunter, great cook and baker! He won many awards and Blue Ribbons at the Iowa State Fair. He taught his oldest granddaughter and his youngest son to bake bread and both won Blue Ribbons their first time out at the IA State Fair. He also enjoyed canoeing on Iowa’s many rivers. He was a great amateur photographer. Chuck also has a great love of music; opera and classical in particular. He once played a soldier in a local production of Verdi’s Aida in Indianola. Later in life, following retirement, he took up kayaking and biking. He is very proud of the fact that he kayaked up until he turned 80.
Following the death of his wife Diane, Chuck, then 63, retired. Over the next 15 years he traveled a great deal. During this time he taught himself to speak German and made many trips to Germany as well as the rest of Europe. In the time after the death of his wife Chuck has had a long term relationship with Toni Van Cleve. Toni has been a great comfort and support to Chuck in his later years since the death of his wife.
Chuck is survived by his children, Nanette (Randy) Buck, Lisa Baumhover, Cindy (Kevin) Eaton, Brian (Shelly) Baumhover, Matthew Baumhover and Charles (Dana) Baumhover, Jr.; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and longtime companion, Toni Van Cleve.
The family will greet friends Thursday, October 9, 2014 from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 7 p.m. at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Hope Ministries, P.O. Box 862 Des Moines Iowa, 50304-0862.
**Please note the construction on SW 9th Street, there is still access to the funeral home from Kenyon off of SW 14th St. and SW 9th Street coming from the north. There is additional parking available in the north grassy lots off of Kenyon. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Cal Woods
10/13/2014
I met Chuck when he was involved in a number of political causes, always fighting for what he believed was important to his community. We later became friends and enjoyed a few cold ones and biking. My life is richer for having known Chuck. My condolences to the family and thanks for inviting me to his 80th birthday. I will miss him.
Chuck Carney
10/09/2014
I had the pleasure of meeting Chuck at Principal's Wellness Center. I enjoyed our visits especially when Chuck would share one of his life adventures. Chuck spoke fondly of his family and I could tell there was a strong family unit. If I am as fortunate as Chuck, I, too, will still be working out when I reach my 80s....he was truly an inspiration for me. As someone else mentioned, I, too, miss Chuck's presence and his warm smile. My sincere condolences to Chuck's family...your Dad was a very nice person and it was a privilege to know him.
Norm and Geri Buck
10/09/2014
Nan and family
We are so sorry for your loss. Take comfort in knowing that your Dad is in a better place now. No more sorrow and no more pain. One day you will be together again.
Bill Cross
10/08/2014
I would see Chuck when he was a volunteer at The Blood Center. Always fun to talk to. Cherish the memories that last forever.
Chris Riedel King
10/08/2014
I never worked with Chuck, but I often saw him walking through the halls of The Principal on the way to the Wellness Center. We always smiled and greeted each other. I've missed seeing him around and wish his family my deepest condolences.
Ron Baumhover
10/08/2014
Chuck was one of a kind. That's said of many people, but with Chuck it was completely true.
You always knew where he stood on a subject, and he communicated with unmatched with and humor. His family - all of them and us - were lucky to have him in our lives as long as possible.
And he has GREAT kids and grandkids.
I wish I could be there with you all.
Sue Smith
10/07/2014
Nan,
I am so sorry for your loss...please know you and your entire family are in my prayers during this difficult time.