Patrick Alshouse

Patrick Alshouse, 75, of Clive died suddenly on Sunday, March 18, 2018 after pneumonia overwhelmed his heart. He was born November 14, 1942, son of Mary Jane and William E. Alshouse. Pat is survived by his wife of 45 years, Mirium Alshouse; his son, Derek Alshouse both of Clive; daughter, Aubrey Alshouse of Louisville, KY; his sister, Marsha (Ray) Scott; nieces and nephews, J. (Katey) Hartzell, Amanda Hartzell (Mike) Tyler, and Bill (Gretchen) Scott of West Des Moines; and his eight great-nieces and nephews.

Pat began his teaching career at Washington Irving Junior High in Des Moines but shortly moved to West Des Moines where he taught language arts at Stillwell Junior High and literature courses at Valley High School where he retired after 25 years of service. Pat grew up in Iowa Falls, Burlington, Ames and Clear Lake participating in senior tennis, swimming teams, and graduating from Mason City Junior College. He became a serious student while completing his degrees at Drake University and thereafter never lost his curiosity or passion for learning.

He took pride in the scholarship of his students and family, enjoyed following the Hawkeyes (in particular), but the Cyclones, and Bulldogs when Iowa didn’t have a game. His hobbies included photography of wildlife and family (while being camera shy himself), personal work-outs in his home gym leading to some medals at the Iowa Games, and anything that interested his children or family. He was devoted to his family, and cherished, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. He was a friend to any animal or bird and was never without at least one dog at his feet.

A memorial celebration service will be held at Westkirk Presbyterian Church, 2700 Colby Woods Dr. in Urbandale, IA on Thursday, March 22 at 11:00 a.m. with visitation one hour prior. Burial will be at Jordan Cemetery in West Des Moines.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Print