Vincent Joseph DeAngelis

Vincent Joseph DeAngelis age 77, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Saturday, May 22nd, 2021.

Vince was born on April 14th, 1944 to Domenick and Lucille DeAngelis. He grew up on the Southside of Des Moines in an area better known as little Italy. He attended St. Anthony School and graduated from Dowling High School in 1962. He received his B.S. in education in 1966 and a Master’s Degree in 1975 both from Drake University. He taught at Meredith, Hoover and Lincoln High School retiring in 2004. He was also employed with the Polk County Assessor’s Office where he enjoyed his work as well as the many friendships that he made.

Vince married Antoniette (Toni) Marasco on September 1, 1978. Together they had three children, Joseph, Robert, and Katherine.

Vince loved teaching Spanish. He shared his passion for learning with thousands of students over the years and touched the lives of so many that walked through his classroom doors. He had a great sense of humor. I’m sure some of his students remember: Debbie Boone, Eva Maria, Doris Day, Chocolate; it’s not just for breakfast anymore, whatever LOLA wants, his bell-ring verbs, é aste ó amos aron dance moves, his temper (if his face turns red...RUN). He always hoped to bring at least one good laugh a day to his students.

During his early years there were countless family and friends gathering everyday around the kitchen table, enjoying Italian food, playing cards, and watching TV. Not to mention the annual Academy Awards, a yearly event with popcorn and no talking.

His Italian heritage, family traditions and faith guided him throughout his life. The simplest pleasures in life brought him immense joy. He had a great sense of humor, was compassionate, and generous beyond words. He had an infectious laugh and a contagious smile. He exemplified great faith, loyalty to family and hard work. He enjoyed resting, watching movies especially musicals, dancing in his early years, eating especially anything with sugar or chocolate, playing slots on his iPad, and finding ways of moving as little as possible.
He was a member of DMEA, ISEA, NEA, Phi Sigma Lota, and Society of the Italian Americans and a lifetime member of St. Anthony Catholic Church.

Vince is survived by his loving wife, Toni DeAngelis; his three greatest achievements, Joseph (Chrissy) DeAngelis, Robert DeAngelis, and Katherine (Jarad) Nelson; grandchildren of whom he adored dearly, Maria, Kate, Benjamin DeAngelis and Thomas Vincent Nelson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; half-brother, Tony (Loretta) DeAngelis; and half-sisters Rosemary (Mickey) Sposeto and Catherine (Henry) Graziano.

The family will greet friends Friday, May 28, 2021 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with the Rosary recited at 9:00 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, 15 Indianola Road. Mass of Christian burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. also at the church. A private family burial will take place at Glendale Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Catholic Workers House, Food Bank of Iowa, or St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in loving memory of Vincent.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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