Donald S. Dewitt

Donald S. DeWitt, 74, of Winterset died Wednesday, July 28, 2021 at the VA Medical Center in Des Moines, IA, just two weeks after he was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer. Visitation with family present will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 pm, Tuesday, August 3, 2021, at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home Winterset Chapel. A graveside memorial service and burial will take place at 11:00 am, Wednesday, August 4, 2021 at the Winterset Cemetery. Don was born on May 23, 1947 in Des Moines, Iowa to Richard S. and Mary E. (Smith) DeWitt. They lived in the Highland Park area of Des Moines until moving to the family farm in Madison County in 1953. Don grew up on the farm, attending Patterson and then Winterset schools. He graduated in 1965 and attended Cornell College for one year before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. He served for four years, including time in Vietnam and Okinawa. After discharge, he lived in the Lake Tahoe area and various places in northern California, working primarily as a carpenter. He returned to Iowa and Winterset where he worked as a carpenter, farm hand, truck driver and, for many years, selling scrap metals. During that time, he served six years in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He was a longtime fan of the sprint car races at Knoxville, loved classic cars, always enjoyed a piece of pie and ice cream, and a conversation where he could share his opinions! He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant brother. He is survived by his sister, Jane DeWitt (Russ Lenth) of Iowa City, and special friend, Penny Brown. Also surviving are a nephew, Brian Lenth, and niece, Kathy Lenth and their families. Don was exposed to Agent Orange, and struggled with bipolar disease and alcoholism. He was proud to have celebrated over 40 years of sobriety. He was well cared for by the VA medical system for many years. To honor Don, and all who have served in our military, we suggest you support organizations that assist veterans, or homeless shelters, since many of our nation’s homeless are veterans.