Deborah Ann McDonald

It is with great sadness that we share the news of Deb McDonald’s passing. Deb joined her heavenly Father on Wednesday, January19, 2022.

She is survived by her husband of 49 years, Gerald McDonald; her son, Ryan McDonald and daughter-in-law, Aimee McDonald; and grandsons, Maxwell, Harrison and Benjamin McDonald.

In August 2020, Deb had a major surgery and doctors removed a large brain tumor. She recovered well from that surgery and was enjoying spending time with her family as she healed.

In recent months, Deb had complications which caused seizures due to the scar tissue from the initial surgery. Despite these seizures, Deb was able to enjoy Christmas with her family. The most anticipated day of the year for her, as gift giving was her love language. She loved giving gifts so much, that she had all her Christmas gifts bought by the end of October. The family had a special day of opening presents and being together. It felt like a magical time, and now we know why.

The day after Christmas, Deb experienced another series of seizures which landed her in the hospital. She fought for a few weeks, worked hard with the doctors and therapists to recover, but ultimately her body was too tired. It was then that Jesus called her home so she wouldn't have to suffer any longer.

Deb was the heart and soul of the family. She was the epitome of love and all that knew her were blessed. We know that she is in the most perfect place and no longer experiencing any pain or hardship, and for that we are grateful.

Deb was preceded in death by her father, Douglas Ankenbauer and mother, Cleo Ankenbauer; and her siblings, Tina Crise and Kenneth Ankenbauer.

Services will be held Saturday, January 29, 2022 at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines at 2:00 p.m. with visitation one hour prior.

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