Donald Leroy Lilly

Donald Leroy Lilly, 77, of Ankeny, Iowa, passed away on August 13, 2025. Born August 19, 1947, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, to Dave and Evelyn (Carr) Lilly. Don grew up with a strong work ethic, quiet determination, and a deep love for those around him.

In 1968, while spending time at Okoboji, he met the love of his life, Carol Jean Hunter. They became inseparable and married the following year, raising two children, Jenni and Scott, and building a life full of laughter, travels, and cherished memories.

Don loved deeply but quietly, with an exterior of steel and a heart of gold—if you were his friend, it was for life; if you were family, you were cherished. His greatest joy came from being surrounded by family, especially cheering at his grandchildren’s activities. He enjoyed fishing, mushroom hunting, playing cards, and the camaraderie of the Masonic Logic Lodge #636 in Ankeny.

Don’s career began with Dole, followed by three decades with Phillips Lighting and GE Lighting before his retirement in 2006. He continued to work various jobs. His last job was with Ruan Transportation in Ankeny as an auditor.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Dave and Evelyn Lilly; his sister and brother-in-law, Karen and Bill Wagner; and his nephew, David Wagner.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Carol Lilly; his children, Jenni (Dave) Murray and Scott (Kari) Lilly; his grandchildren, Ashlyn (Jacob) Murray-Greiner, Natalie (Jayden) Gatica, and Sarah Lilly (Adam Rademacher), Luke Murray; his nephew Greg Wagner; his niece-in-law Maria Wagner and great-nephew Anthony Wagner.

He will be remembered for his steadfast love, quiet strength, quick wit, and the way he made each person in his life feel valued and loved.

An evening visitation has been scheduled at Merle Hay Funeral Home, 4400 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa at 5:00pm-7:00pm on Friday, August 29, 2025.  A masonic burial will be at a later date in Ankeny, Iowa.