Vona Ann Burbank

Vona Ann (Larson) Burbank, 92, was welcomed into the kingdom of God on May 24, 2023. Vona was born September 27, 1930. She graduated from East High in Des Moines, Waldorf College, and St. Olaf College. She received her master’s degree in secondary education administration. In 2004, she married Wendell Burbank.

Vona taught English for several years in Buffalo Center, Iowa before becoming vice principal at Merrill and Meredith Jr. Highs in Des Moines.

Vona’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was a lifetime member of Central Lutheran Church and then Capitol Hill Lutheran after the two churches merged. She was a devoted member serving on many committees, Choir, Sunday School, Circle, and Altar Guild. She was a member of Iowa Lutheran Hospital Guild serving in many capacities. She gave many volunteer hours to the Not New Shop. She was a Member of Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority for 63 years, Des Moines Women’s Club, and East High Alumni.

Vona’s love for travel took her to many places including Israel, Africa, Antarctica, Alaska, and most of Europe. She made many trips to Norway, which is her heritage. After her marriage to Wendell, they enjoyed traveling and spending winters in Hawaii.

Vona loved her family and attended everybody’s everything. She was so generous with gifts and sending cards. She loved sports and attending games when family members played.

Vona is survived by her stepchildren, Debra (James) Taylor, Kimberly (Steve) Dykmann, and Paul Burbank; son-in-law, George Hess; step-grandchildren, Trevor Taylor, Derek Hess, Erik Sheldon, and Brandon, Ryan and Colyn Burbank; 18 great-grandchildren; niece, Jodi Mitchell; nephew, Bill Larson; and many extended family.

Vona was preceded in death by her husband, Wendell; her stepdaughter, Vicki; her parents, Kenneth and Lillian Larson; brother, Kenneth (Bud) Larson; sister-in-law, Beverly Larson; granddaughter, Shawn With; and an infant brother and sister.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at Capitol Hill Lutheran Church, 511 Des Moines Street, Des Moines. Burial will follow at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to Capitol Hill Lutheran Church, Lewy Body Dementia Association, American Diabetes Association, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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