Nicholas John Durand

Nicholas John Durand, 73, of Urbandale, IA, passed away Friday, April 4, 2025 at EveryStep Kavanagh House in Des Moines, IA, surrounded by his family. He was born December 26, 1951 in Des Moines, Iowa, the son of George Durand Sr. and Catherine Ferring Durand.

Nick graduated from Dowling High School in 1970. Following graduation, Nick earned his degree in health and physical education from the University of Northern Iowa and began his teaching career at Visitation School, Des Moines. He later taught at St. Theresa School. Nick enjoyed coaching softball, basketball and football at Dowling High School and later at Johnston High School.

Nick loved Christmas and his light display was one of the best in the metro area. He spent many hours creating Christmas displays for everyone to appreciate year after year. Nick enjoyed traveling with his wife, hiking in the mountains, attending jazz festivals and outdoor music events, going to Iowa State football games and visiting his granddaughters.

Nick is survived by his wife, Becky, of 46 years; daughter, Kellie (Mark); son Chris and granddaughters Liliana and Isabella. He loved his family so much. Nick is also survived by his siblings; Jim, Francis, Kathy and Julie.

In addition to his parents, his brothers George Jr. and Donald preceded Nick in death.

A special thank you to Dr. Tom Buroker, Dr. Andrew Nish, PA Cortney Bax and the many people who supported Nick during his cancer journey. Your kindness and compassion was so important. Lastly, a big thank you to neighbors and close friends who went out of their way to help with yard work, snow removal and making Nick’s last Christmas Merry and Bright.

A visitation will be held from 3:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. on Friday, April 11, 2025 at the Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory in Urbandale. A Celebration of Life will be from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Giovannetti Community Shelter at Walker Johnston Park in Urbandale,

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.caldwellparrish.com