Megan Jean Wilkens

Megan Jean Wilkens was born February 5, 1983. She grew up in Des Moines, graduating from Johnston High School and attended DMACC. Megan was a fun-loving, kind hearted soul with a contagious laugh. She cherished life and spending time with her family and friends. She was living her best life and it was ended too soon.

Megan’s favorite season was the fall, especially Halloween, creating costumes and makeup. Her home was decorated year round in the Halloween theme.

Megan passed away on September 22, 2022, with her mother by her side. She accepted the end of her life with courage and grace. She bravely strived to defeat acute myeloid leukemia for two years, enduring multiple rounds of chemotherapy, an unsuccessful stem cell transplant, lengthy stays in the hospital (once for 53 days), tests, infusions, and clinical trials. Her devoted friends supported her during her cancer journey, holding two fundraisers for her benefit.

Megan is survived by her mother, Joyce Jean Kuster, her uncle, Jim Kuster (Alana), and many other relatives. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Dale and Noreen Kuster and her uncle, Tom Kuster.

A special thank you to Mission Cancer, Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Mercy Hospice, and the Ambulatory Infusion Center in particular. In memory of Megan, consider a donation to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, your favorite furry friend rescue, Mercy Hospice, or LifeServe.

“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, but love leaves a memory no one can steal.” (Quote from an Irish headstone)

There will be a celebration of life from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, September 29 at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines, IA 50309. A memorial gathering will take place at 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 30 at St. Mary of Nazareth Catholic Church, 4600 Meredith Drive, Des Moines, IA 50310, and will be followed by burial at Glendale Cemetery.

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