Byron Gene Didlo

On September 9, 2024, at 96 years of age, Byron Gene Didlo passed into our Lord’s arms with wife Gracie Elizabeth of 74 years at his side.

Byron Gene was born April 20, 1928, in St Joseph, Missouri to Norma Jean Woods and Byron Malloy Didlo. He graduated high school in Seattle, Washington and then from junior college in St Joseph. Byron spent 2 years in the Navy and studied electronics. Once discharged, he met and fell in love with Gracie Elizabeth Salmon at the roller rink he worked. The couple married at her parent's home on September 3, 1950. Byron was accepted at an electronics school in Chicago, so they moved there right after their marriage. Once graduated, Byron took a job at NBC and worked on several popular shows. In 1955, he was offered a position at KCCI TV8 Des Moines in television production. This move allowed them to be closer to family. Byron worked behind the scenes as a camera operator lighting director and assisted in the transition from broadcasting in black and white to color. They bought their first home in West Des Moines and had 2 children, Gail and Greg. They lived a full beautiful life. Byron’s focus and happiness were always his family. He adored his wife, kids, grandkids and great-grandkids.

In 1975, Byron received his private pilot's license. He and Gracie spent many hours flying for leisure and visiting family. They were always active, traveling to all 50 states and several countries. They loved big family vacations, which were especially memorable, roller skating, and working out at a gym well into their late 80’s.

Byron was a very socially active member of many clubs and had a deep faith in our Lord. He had a smile that lit up the world and was as kind and helpful as anyone could be. He could fix anything and tackled problems with determination. He made himself available to help, anywhere, any time. He was the best.

Byron is survived by his wife, Gracie Elizabeth; daughter, Gail (Chuck); son, Gregory (Jenn); grandsons, Bradley, Lucas, and Connor; granddaughters, Amie and Katie(AJ); and great-grandchildren, Isaac, Alexia, Houston, and Lincoln.

Services will be held at Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter on Friday, September 20 at 11:00 a.m. with a Celebration of Life to follow at the Edgewater Event center.

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