Donald E. Gimzo

It is with great sadness that the family of Donald (Don) Edwin Gimzo, 60, announce his passing on Monday, October 2, 2023 in Des Moines, ending his two year battle with lung cancer.

Don was born in Ames, Iowa on August 14, 1963, to Donna (Schwandt) and Pete Gimzo. He grew up in Alden with Donna and Wayne Harms (step-dad) where he also attended school. Don served our country in the Iowa National Guard for seven years.

He spent his entire working career as an over the road truck driver traveling from coast to coast. Donald, otherwise known as Sneaky Snake in the trucking community, loved the open road and all the people he met along the way. In addition to caring for his truck he had many interests, but he was most passionate about his Harley Davidson motorcycles. As a member of the Harley Owners Group, he was an avid rider before he could drive a car and loved tinkering with and caring for them as much as he loved to ride them. He enjoyed collecting eagles, guns and Native American art.

He lived in Urbandale for the last 20+ years with his dogs who remained loyal to him to the end. Family and friends were important to Donald, and he enjoyed the time he spent with them. We will all miss him greatly and think of him often.

He is survived by his five children: Mary of Des Moines, Donald (Jessica) of Marshalltown, Steven of Eldora, Shaya Vasquez (Edward) of Eldora, and Amanda Wykle (Aaron) of Alden; grandchildren: Skyler, Lucas, Darian, Justin, Maddy, Channing, Edward, Raiden, Angel, Godrik, Jayce, Floraina, Hadley, Leo, Hudson, Wolfgang, and Freyja; siblings: Mike Gimzo (Pam), Tim Gimzo, Terry Harms, Threase Harms (Rick Wagaman), and Tracey Harms; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by all his parents and grandson, Gavin.

Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by funeral service at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, October 15, 2023, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. In honor of Don, please wear your favorite Harley gear.

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