Mary Margaret Van Pelt

Mary Van Pelt, 89, of Van Meter, peacefully passed away on July 7, 2023, surrounded by her loved ones at her home. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth, and cherished memories.

Mary was born on July 3, 1934, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Vincenzo Sr. and Marguerite (Thompson) Gimondo. On November 26, 1951, she married the love of her life, Allen Clyde Van Pelt, and together they embarked on a journey filled with love and laughter.

Mary had a joyful spirit and found pleasure in the simple things in life. She had a passion for shopping and spent countless hours exploring stores, always finding delight in discovering new treasures. Crafting and crocheting were also cherished pastimes for her, as she expressed her creativity through her hands, bringing beauty into the world.

One of Mary's greatest joys was cooking. She possessed a magical touch in the kitchen, and her meals were always met with delight and appreciation by everyone fortunate enough to taste them. She loved to cook, and she poured her heart and soul into each dish she prepared.

Mary and Clyde enjoyed embarking on adventures together. They relished their trips to Branson, Missouri, where they experienced the joy of live entertainment and created lasting memories. Closer to home, they found solace in camping at local sites across Iowa, embracing the beauty of nature and the serenity of outdoor living.

However, Mary's most profound love was reserved for her family. She was an extraordinary grandmother who never missed an opportunity to support her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Whether attending their events, cheering them on, or simply lending a helping hand, she devoted herself wholeheartedly to their well-being and happiness. Mary always said she had the privilege to babysit her grandkids and great grandkids as they grew up. Mary's nurturing nature and selflessness made a lasting impact on those she cared for.

Mary is survived by her children Sharon (Randy) Mills, Steven Van Pelt, Matthew (Tammy) Van Pelt, and Brian (Angela) Van Pelt; grandchildren, Tyson, Ryan, Tiffiny, Sara, Megan, Shianne, Kjirsten, Colby, Connor, Keslie, Allen, Dalten, and Taylor; along with 10 great grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Kristen Van Pelt; brothers and sisters-in-law, Don (Barbara) Van Pelt, Dennis (Cheryl) Van Pelt, and Arlene Gimondo; along with many nieces, nephews and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Clyde; her parents, son, Wayne Van Pelt; grandson, Cory Van Pelt; sisters, Ruth Lyons, Rachael Smelser, and Karen Port; and brothers, Raymond Gimondo, Michael Gimondo, and Vincenzo Gimondo Jr.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 11, 2023 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Adel Chapel. A private family burial will take place in the Van Meter Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made out to the Alzheimer’s Association. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.caldwellparrish.com.