Shirley M. Van Zante

Shirley M. Van Zante died on Thursday, November 17, 2022 at her home. There will be a memorial gathering for family and friends on Friday, February 10, 2023 at 11.00 a.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines, IA. Private burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Pella, Iowa.

Shirley was born on September 23, 1930 in Elma, Iowa. Her parents were Vernon and Georgia (Woodmansee) Borland. During her younger years, the family lived in Leon and later moved to Chariton, where she attended her first years of high school. In 1948 yet another move brought them to Des Moines, which became her home for the remainder of her life.

Shirley graduated from East High School in Des Moines, then attended Drake University. In 1952, she received her Bachelor of Arts degree, with majors in English and Journalism. After graduation, she worked on a business trade magazine before joining Meredith Corporation in 1955.

This was the beginning of a long editorial career in home furnishings and interior design. At various times during her years at Meredith, Shirley was responsible for the home furnishings area of Better Homes & Gardens Books, and for producing four decorating magazines in the Special Interest Publications group. In 1975, she was named Furnishings and Design Editor of Better Homes & Gardens magazine where she served until her retirement in 1989.

Along the way, she met and married a special man named Dirk Van Zante. During their nearly 40 years together, they traveled extensively throughout the U.S., Europe, Mexico and the Caribbean. Dirk and Shirley also shared many other interests, especially their Miniature Schnauzer terriers. Cody, one of the last to enliven their household, was Shirley’s faithful companion after Dirk’s death in 2009.

She took particular pleasure in spending time with her family and friends. She also loved music – from Brubeck to Beethoven, enjoyed the theater, a good mystery novel, Iowa Hawkeye football, and Democratic politics.

She leaves behind with love her nephew and family, two favorite cousins and families, her very special step-family, plus cherished friends – and newest pup Maggie, her best buddy.

Contributions in her memory may be made to the Dirk and Shirley Van Zante Scholarship Fund at Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, 1915 Grand Avenue in Des Moines, IA 50309. The fund’s purpose is to help Iowa high school students who need financial aid to attend college. Or donations may be directed to the Des Moines Symphony or the Animal Rescue League.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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