Michael Edward Waldron
May 23, 2018
Michael Edward Waldron passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on May 23, 2018. He was 71. Services will be held Thursday, May 31, 2018 at 11:00 am at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines, with visitation one hour prior. Burial will follow at St. John’s Cemetery in Cummings.
Michael was the son of Robert and Esther Waldron. He attended Sacred Heart elementary school, Dowling Catholic High School and the University of Nebraska. Michael joined the Army at 19 years old and was member of 173rd Airborne. Sadly, he also returned as a wounded Vietnam veteran. He never let that become a hindrance to him as he spent the rest of his life helping other young soldiers who were returning back from duty. He was an advocate for Veterans rights, helped organize the State Vietnam Veterans Association, the Disabilities Act and was a member of the Vietnam Wall Memorial. Michael worked as a respiratory therapist, licensed paramedic and licensed scuba diver. He also owned a gun shop and fishing shop in West Des Moines.
Michael was a kind and generous man who would do anything for anybody. He was very proud of his Scottish, Italian and Irish heritage. He loved the Italian festivals, St. Patty’s Day, especially his involvement in the St. Patty’s Day Parade, the Cubs, and all animals. He loved muscle cars and was a member of the Central Iowa Corvette Club. He also liked to participate in RAGBRAI.
Michael will be mourned by his four sisters; his godson Tony who he loved very much; and his many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Bobby.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Wounded Warriors Project or to the Puppy Jake Foundation.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
George Otto
05/23/2024
Knew Mr. Waldron from 1982-1986 while I was in Des Moines. Iowa. Like himself, served in combat in the Republic of South Vietnam in the Infantry branch of the U.S. Army. He was very supportive of veterans in many ways during that time (1982-1986), and probably for many years thereafter. Veterans suffer when someone like him pass away.
Jim Julich
06/15/2018
Farewell old friend Mike. You will never be forgotten. I had so many good times, especially baseball and football, with you and your whole family. Prayers to all the Waldrons.
Diane Shortell McClung
05/31/2018
I am so sorry. Prayers for the Family. The Waldrons and The Shortells had many, many fun times together....
Stacy Howe (Schroedel)
05/31/2018
Thinking of you all, my deepest condolences.
SEF
05/30/2018
ALways fun sitting in the shed out at the farm bsing about guns cars or what ever else rip mike
Susan Ritchie Johnson
05/30/2018
RIP Mike. When our families would get together I always remember you as a kind hearted person who was never to busy to hang with the little kids. Condolences to your family
David Nyberg
05/30/2018
May you Rest in Peace. Condolences to your family.
Larry McClure
05/30/2018
Mike was my best friend all through Sacred Heart and Dowling. He was my brother. We played together got in trouble together. His family was my second family unfortunately I moved away and we lost contact but every May 1st I think of Mike and will forever.
God has Mike in his arms now and forever.
Love you Mike
John Davis
05/30/2018
RIP brother, friend, and comrade in arms. You fought the good fight and now you can rest.
Charlene A Waldron
05/29/2018
A very special friend who has always been there for me, May you R.I.P. Michael Love you always! Char
Donna Ritchie McDonald
05/28/2018
A good son, a good soldier, a good man. Im sure Bob and Esther are welcoming him home with open arms. Love to the Waldron family
Larry Speed
05/28/2018
Farewell my friend and R.I.P. 173rd soldier. You did your job for our country.
Sherry (Niles) Hicks
05/27/2018
He served his country well. He was a friend. He will be missed by many.