Kaye M. Condon

Kaye Marlene Cunningham Condon, a vibrant and creative soul, passed away on March 4, 2024. Born on August 15, 1935 in Cherokee, IA, she was raised by her mother, Millie, and her grandmother. Kaye attended North High School and continued her education at Drake University, pursuing her love for English.

At St. Augustine Church, Kaye met the love of her life, Charles Benjamin Condon. Their love story unfolded with a shared passion for travel, gardening, gourmet food, and jazz. Together, they built a beautiful family of five children, Ben, Teri, Kelleigh, Chris, and Shawn. As a family, they embarked on countless adventures, from hiking to skiing to big boa dance parties to creating ceramic beauty. These adventures extended to her four granddaughters, Chandler and Kennadé Condon, Celia Gottlieb, and Sage Beebe; and her great-grandson, Azurite, born to Kennadé.

A pillar in the Des Moines community, Kaye actively contributed to various non-profits, including serving on the board of the Des Moines Ballet and Anderson Ranch in Colorado. She volunteered with the Junior League and the Blank Park Zoo. She also showcased her whimsical ceramics at the Des Moines Art Festival and had a one woman show at the Heritage Gallery.

Kaye championed women's rights, environmental conservation, and equality. Her teachings emphasized love for everyone (and everything, especially cats), connecting with nature, self -expression, and nurturing a perpetual curiosity. Kaye shared her childlike curiosity through art, music, and punchy fashion.
The family will honor Kaye's life with a private ceremony at a later date.

Kaye Marlene Cunningham Condon leaves behind a legacy of compassion, creativity, love, and a whole lot of Dove Chocolate wrappers. Her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial may be sent to Ballet Des Moines, Des Moines Art Center or the Blank Park Zoo in loving memory of Kaye.

Condolences of sympathy to the family may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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