Julio F. Portales

Julio F. Portales, age 90, passed away Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at his home in Des Moines.

Julio was born October 5, 1934, to Mariano and Rosario Salas Portales in La Pampilla, Arequipa, Peru and later moved to Lima, Peru. He was one of nine children; he had five brothers and three sisters. He was able to immigrate to the United States in the 1970s.

Julio was a man of faith and a devout Catholic. He loved getting dressed up and was proud to go to church and spread the love of God. Julio was a part of the San Martin de Porres and Señor de los Milagros congregations while living in Peru for many years.

Julio was a very kind and helpful person, always willing to offer a helping hand, although he could also be very stubborn. Julio would take his nieces, nephews, and even the neighborhood children to school, and pick up them up after to go to McDonald’s. He was very hardworking, outgoing, always making jokes, and was very generous. He always kept informed on current events and what was going on in the world. One of his favorite things to do was to go out to eat.

Julio was very loving with his family and friends he considered family, even if they weren’t blood related. He would help take care of the family’s dogs and would give them hotdogs, even when he wasn’t supposed to! His family was his first priority and he took his role of godfather very seriously.

Julio worked for Meredith Corporation for many years prior to his retirement. He also worked in the landscaping and nursery industry for Iowa Outdoor Products for five years after his retirement and he was very proud of his work. He loved to be of service to others and feel of use. He did not know how to sit still!

Julio is survived by his sisters, Urelia and Juana, many nieces, nephews, goddaughters and godsons.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m., Monday, October 14, 2024, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at Our Lady of the Americas, 1271 E 9th Street, Des Moines, with burial to follow at Glendale Cemetery.

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

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Print