Loren George Dittmer

Loren George Dittmer, 96, passed away on February 14, 2026, at the VA Hospital. Services will be held at All Saints Catholic Church, 650 NE 52nd Ave. in Des Moines on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. with visitation one hour prior. Burial will be at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery.

Loren was born on May 20, 1929, to Rose (Sherman) and Frank Dittmer. He married Ione Cruikshank on July 18, 1953. With their two children, Randal and Rebecca, they created a joyful and loving home.

Loren was a true outdoorsman, enjoying both hunting and gardening. He enjoyed sharing the fruits of his garden with friends, family, and anyone who happened to walk by.

Loren was an enthusiastic tinkerer and inventor, often juggling multiple projects at once. He earned a reputation as the go-to person for repairs, always eager to lend a hand to anyone in need. His family will attest that he was always willing to lend a hand to anyone he encountered.

Loren is survived by his children, Randal (Donna) Dittmer of Colfax, IA and Rebecca (Jimmy Smith) Dittmer of Altoona, IA; grandchildren, Jason (Julia) Smith of Elgin, IL, Jeremy (Jacqueline) Dittmer of Newton, IA, Amanda Bullard of West Des Moines, IA, and Kavin Fagerlind of Ankeny, IA; great-grandchildren, Taylor Greiner, Molly Smith, Devin Smith, Wyatt Bullard and Tessa Bullard; and great-great-grandchild, Theodore Greiner.

Memorials may be directed to the family for distribution to the VA Hospital and Hospice. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Print