Milo "Mike" Harlan Been

Milo “Mike” Harlan Been, 87, passed away August 29, 2017 at Mercy Hospice in Johnston, Iowa. Milo was born October 5, 1929 in Tingley, Iowa to Harley and Leona (Saltzman) Been. He attended school in Tingley and later received his GED from Des Moines Tech High School.

On July 5, 1947, Milo married Naomi L. Minnick at Creston, Iowa and they had 68 wonderful years together. On April 20, 1948 they became parents to their daughter, Melody Kay. Milo worked construction (building bridges) until 1954 when the decision was made to move to the south side of Des Moines, living there until 1993 when they moved to their townhome in West Des Moines. Milo served as president of their townhome association for ten years. He worked for Firestone Retread Plant in Des Moines as a Plant Manager until his retirement in 1985.

Milo was “Uncle Mike” to his many nieces, nephews and all their friends. He was always there to help with any projects they might have going. Some of his favorite pastimes included: wood working, attending Iowa State Football games ... cheering at all other events ... especially when family members were involved, RFD on TV, the yearly outing to the Iowa State Fair (with his special story of the first trip when he was 8 years old and got lost!), and fishing trips to Minnesota where he enjoyed spending time with his brother, Merle (M.C.) and other Belmond buddies. Milo’s most favorite pastime of all was the planning and travelling with family and friends. Mention where you might be heading and Milo would have instructions and mileage for you in a minute, with the help of his favorite book, “The Road Atlas!” Many of their fun and fantastic trips included nine trips to Hawaii. Everyone enjoyed Milo’s “bringing to life” the stories of their adventures.

No way can we not mention his love of his computer. This little technology wonder enabled Milo to send humorous stories and jokes to everyone! But, his number one enjoyment and thrill was to spend time with family, whether it be everyday visits, holidays or the many fun filled family reunions.

Milo is survived by his daughter, Melody; sisters-in-law, Lillian Been of Palm Harbor, Florida, Nila Been of Goodland, Kansas; and Doris Been of Belmond, Iowa; brother-in-law, Don Donner of Augusta, Georgia; many nieces and nephews; and a host of friends and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Naomi; brothers, Marvin, Mark, Mac and Merle Been; sisters, Margaret (Chuck) Dutton, Maudeene (Bud) Swinehart, Marrabell (Earl) Schulz, Marilyn (Max) Tindle, and Mardell Donner; his father and mother-in-law, Emmel and Faresta Minnick.

Memorial may be directed to the Tingley Community Center, the Iowa State Fair, the Wright County Fair, Mercy Hospice in Johnston, IA or to the recipient of your choice.

Condolences may be expressed at:www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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