Kory Kym Ellerbeck

Kory Kym Ellerbeck, 54, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, November 29, 2024 at the MercyOne West Lakes ER in West Des Moines, Iowa.

Kory was born on March 12, 1970, in Davenport, Iowa, to Rev. Clifton and Marjorie (Voas) Ellerbeck. He graduated from Hampton High School in 1988 where he played trumpet in band, sang in choir, participated in student council, basketball, and track. Kory was also awarded the Eagle Scout Badge, the highest rank in Boy Scouts. He went on to attend Simpson College, where he was Vice President of Lambda Chi Alpha and a member of the Spirit Squad. Kory graduated with a degree in Education and minors in Spanish and Math.

Kory’s career included working with Aflac and Colonial Life Insurance for many years. In the years leading up to his passing, Kory worked at Target and Perkins, where he formed strong connections with his regular customers and was known for his light-hearted humor and friendly banter.

Kory was passionate about helping others and dedicating his time to meaningful causes. He was an active member of several organizations, including Beat Cancer Today, the Parrot Head Club, and Coconut Castaways. He also volunteered as a DJ at Maddy’s Classic Volleyball Tournament, which raised funds for the Children's Cancer Connection.

In his personal life, Kory had a deep love for sports, particularly the Iowa Hawkeyes. He enjoyed playing cards, building Legos, and spending time with his family and friends, often sharing laughter and creating cherished memories.

He is survived by his daughter, Jenna Ellerbeck of Grimes; his father, Clifton Ellerbeck of Des Moines; sisters, Carmen (Ed) Walkwitz of Des Moines and Carita (Brian) Pfaltzgraff of Waverly; his brother, Kyle (Debbie) Ellerbeck of Omaha, NE; his nieces and nephews: Shiela Lanky of Denver, CO, Megan (Caleb) Gilbertson of St. Peter, MN, Lexie Ellerbeck of Salina, KS, Josh (Megan) Ellerbeck of Shoreview, MN, Ethan Pfaltzgraff of Des Moines, Elise Pfaltzgraff of Osage, and Monique Carmack of Des Moines.

Kory was preceded in death by his beloved son, Derek Ellerbeck; his mother, Marjorie (Voas) Ellerbeck; his sister, Carolee Ellerbeck; and his nephew, Curtis Lanky.

A memorial service celebrating Kory’s life will be held at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway in West Des Moines on Friday, December 6, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

Kory will be remembered for his generous spirit, love of family, his contagious smile, sparkling blue eyes, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Memorials may be directed to Tori’s Angels and condolences expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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