Debra Grother

Debra G. Grother, 75, passed away February 26, 2024, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. Some believe she decided that her husband had enough “alone time” and it was time for her to join him in the next chapter of their journey together.

Debra was born January 16, 1949, in Des Moines to Paul and Mary (Ingram) VanderWaal. She was a lifelong resident of Des Moines. Debra was a graduate of Des Moines Tech High School. She married Joseph Grother on September 11, 1968. Together the couple had three children.

Some people give titles to their memoirs like “Therapist to the Stars.” If Debra had a memoir, it would be titled “Babysitter to the Southside.” Debra helped raise many of the kids who grew up on and around Creston Ave and treated all of them as if they were her own.

Debra will also be remembered for her resilience and ability to stay in the fight when others doubted her. Regardless of the obstacle or challenge, Debra always met them head-on and with a stubbornness that could not be deterred. It was because of this that she was able to be an important part of the lives of her grandchildren and played an active role in raising them.

Debra is survived by her sons, Scott (Sherry Thien) and Andy (Michelle Law Grother); daughter, Melissa; and 5 grandchildren, Kaylee, Ryan, Paul, Abbigail, and Chloe.

A memorial service will be held Monday, March 4, 2024 at 9:30 am at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street. Debra will be laid to rest at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Van Meter alongside her husband.

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

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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