Dharl Bagley

Dharl Leo Bagley, Sr., 95, of Ankeny, Iowa, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on July 9, 2025.

Born on February 5, 1930, in Jerome, Iowa, Dharl was a man whose life was a beautiful expression of faith, family, and music. He was a wonderful, faithful and devoted husband to the love of his life for 64 years, Judi, and a proud father to five children.

Dharl worked as a welder for Iowa Power and Lennox and spent 17 years as a punch press operator at Townsend Engineering retiring in 1992. He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1948 to 1949.

Dharl was a collector of all things, especially instruments, antique cars, guns and coins. He was a member of Bethany Full Gospel Church. From the moment he first played a guitar at the age of 30, it was clear that God had gifted him with a rare talent. Dharl had a way of turning any moment into a song and every gathering into a celebration. Whether he was singing and playing with family, having a jam session in his living room, playing at the nursing home or Silver Dollar City in Branson, MO, Dharl’s music was a ministry—one that brought joy to all who heard it. He used music to glorify God in every season of life.

A faithful servant of Christ, Dharl lived his life as a testimony to God’s grace. His love for others and unwavering faith were an example to all who met him. Dharl’s kindness, laughter, stories, hugs, prayer, and support will never be forgotten. Dharl’s legacy is one of love—love for his Savior and love for his family.

He is survived by his wife, Judi; his children, Rae (Rod) Surber, Dharl Jr. (Leticia), Dallas (Torrie); 11 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; 1 great great-grandchild; sister, Irene Lewis; as well as a community of friends and fellow believers who will miss him dearly.

Dharl was preceded in death by his parents; son, Rick; daughter, Shelly; grandchildren, Aimee and Brayden; and 9 siblings.

A celebration of Dharl’s life will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at Hamilton's near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave, Des Moines. Family will greet friends beginning at 9:00 a.m., with service at 10:30 a.m. Burial to follow at Iowa Veterans Cemetery, 34024 Veterans Memorial Drive, Adel.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family, in loving memory of Dharl.

The family would like to thank the VA Home Base Care Team and Suncrest Hospice for the amazing care that they gave to Dharl and his family.

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