1944-2026

William Ray “Bill” Hillyard, 82, of West Des Moines, entered into eternal rest on Aug. 21, 2026. Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 31 at Highland Memory Gardens in Des Moines. Following the service, there will be a celebration of life and luncheon held at AMVETS Post No. 2, 2818 Fifth Ave., Des Moines, and casual dress is suggested. Memorial contributions may be left in Bill’s name to the Food Bank of Iowa. Online condolences may be left at www.johnsonfamilyfuneralhome.com.  

He was born on Aug. 8, 1944, in Des Moines, to Vivian Bolich Grimes Hillyard and Edwin Ray Hillyard. Bill grew up in Des Moines and graduated from North High School. He was a proud Polar Bear, Class of 1962. He went on to attend the University of Northern Iowa, then known as Iowa State Teacher’s College in Cedar Falls, where he earned his B.A. teaching degree in mathematics with a minor in business education and accounting. He later continued his studies at the University of Bridgeport in Bridgeport, Connecticut, where he earned both his master’s degree and his sixth-year professional degree in education administration and supervision. He was a lifelong learner who valued education not only as a profession but as a calling.

Bill devoted his life to teaching, mentoring and guiding students with patience, humor and high standards. He began his career at Blissfield Community Schools in Michigan, where he taught mathematics to students in grades nine through 12 from 1966 to 1969. He then traveled overseas to Institut Montana in Zugerberg, Zug, Switzerland, where he served as a mathematics instructor for grades six through 12 from 1969 to 1973. During that time, he also served as assistant dean of the American School, where his responsibilities included boarding school supervision, dormitory living, class scheduling, and organizing tours and activities for students.

From 1973 to 1975, Bill taught at the American School of Aberdeen in Aberdeen, Scotland, where he instructed students in grades seven through 12. He also served as head of the math department, director of testing for SAT, content mastery, and related programs, and director of student activities. He later taught at Greens Farms Academy in Greens Farms, Connecticut, where he was a math instructor for grades seven through 12, a ninth-grade adviser, a math team coach and a work program organizer. At Wilton High School in Wilton, Connecticut, he served from 1982 to 2004 as a math instructor for grades nine through 12, director of student activities, student government adviser and class adviser. He also wrote curriculum during the summers and directed ACT, SAT and PSAT testing, and he spent one summer working with the assistant superintendent as an intern for his degree program.

Bill also shared his knowledge as an adjunct instructor at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut, where he taught algebra, precalculus, finite math and calculus in both semesters and summers from 1983 to 1987. He later taught finite math and calculus at the University of Bridgeport from 1988 to 1989. His commitment to mathematics education extended beyond the classroom, as he coached for the Connecticut State Math Team in national competitions from 1979 to 2004. He helped prepare students for competition at Penn State, organized local math competitions throughout Connecticut, and wrote questions for both state and local school competitions. His students benefited not only from his knowledge but also from his encouragement and belief in their potential.

During his college summers, Bill worked at Crescent Beach Lodge in Milford, also known as Okoboji, where he managed the office at the lakeside resort in northwestern Iowa and cooked for the restaurant. That experience reflected the same work ethic and versatility that marked every chapter of his life. He was dependable, capable and always willing to help wherever he was needed.

Bill was a Christian whose faith was reflected in the way he lived and served others. He was known for his generosity and for the steady kindness he extended to those around him. He organized and served spaghetti dinners and worked in soup kitchens for many years, and he spoke often about those experiences because they mattered deeply to him. He also enjoyed playing in his church’s Bell Choir, where his love of music and fellowship found a natural home.

He had many interests that brought joy to his life. Bill loved the theater and music, and he attended hundreds of Broadway and off-Broadway productions over the years. He collected playbills from the shows he saw and could often be heard singing a show tune, sometimes pausing to ask others what show it came from. He was an avid bridge player and enjoyed the challenge and companionship the game provided. He also loved to travel and accompanied students on many trips to Berlin, Munich, Dubrovnik, Budapest, Paris, Rome, Verona, Venice, London, Moscow, Leningrad, Barcelona, Madrid and destinations throughout Scotland and Switzerland, as well as many places across the United States. His curiosity about the world and his joy in sharing it with students made those journeys especially meaningful.

Bill was a conversationalist. He loved to visit with anyone who would give him an ear.

Bill decided to purchase a home on Lake Panorama in the early 1980s. He would go there during his summer vacations from teaching where he spent valuable time with family and friends. He later demolished that home and built a new one on the same land. He hosted all of his family at this huge banquet of deliciousness for Thanksgiving each year until he sold his home and retired to West Des Moines.

Bill always had, by his side, man’s best friend. His dogs meant the world to him. Over the years, he had Maxwell, Euclid, Emma, Maxwell II, Emma II and now Kit. They were his children, and he loved them so.

Bill will be remembered as quirky, intelligent and generous. He had a quick wit, a sharp mind and a warm heart. He made an impression on students, colleagues, friends and family alike through his humor, his dedication and his genuine care for others. His life was one of service, learning and connection, and he leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew him.

He is survived by his sister, Sue Grimes Freerksen; his nieces and nephews, Tim Grimes, Barb Argenta (Mark Bishop), Jim Grimes (Deb), Chuck Grimes, Howard Freerksen (Jenni Scott) and Laura Stalzer (Jay); his great-nieces and great-nephews, Bailey Grimes, Michael Argenta, Mindy Argenta, Chaz Cawley, Kevin Grimes, Scott Grimes, Landon Stalzer and Drew Stalzer; and his great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews, Evan Argenta and Savannah Davis; and his loving fur baby, Kit. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vivian Bolich Grimes Hillyard and Edwin Ray Hillyard, and his brother, Ronald Grimes.

Bill’s life was a gift to those around him, and his memory will continue to bring comfort, laughter and gratitude to all who loved him.

Bill’s family wants to thank everyone who ever checked in on him, brought him meals, mowed his lawn, went shopping for him, cleaned his house, hung out with him, cared for his dog or cared for him in any way during his final months and days with us. You are a blessing and we are so grateful.

Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord. 

1954-2026

Marianne (Zoul) Favaro, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, passed away at home on July 19, 2026, with her devoted husband, Bill, at her side. She was 71 years old.

Born on Oct. 7, 1954, in Cleveland, Ohio, Marianne was the daughter of Robert Joseph Zoul and Anna Maria Zoul and the middle of five children. When she was 7 years old, the family moved to Southern California, where Marianne would spend most of her life. Although born in Ohio, she proudly considered herself an original “Valley Girl.” California wasn’t simply where she lived — it was part of who she was. Petite, stylish and known for her striking blue eyes, Marianne loved sunshine, beautiful clothes and was always the life of the party. But those who knew her best will remember far more than her beauty. She was quick-witted, intelligent, endlessly curious and remarkably resilient. Marianne had an incredibly generous heart and a natural gift for making people feel welcome. Whether it was a holiday, a family gathering or an ordinary afternoon, she always made room for one more person at the table.  

She attended St. Genevieve High School in Panorama City, California, before marrying Thomas “Tom” Connolly Jr. in 1974. Together they built a home in Woodland Hills, California, where they raised their daughters, Shannon Leigh (Connolly) Downing and Brittany Leigh Connolly.

Marianne poured herself into motherhood. When Brittany faced serious health challenges as a child, Marianne devoted herself completely to her care while remaining a constant presence at St. Mel Catholic School, where the girls both attended. Her family was always her top priority, and she loved them fiercely.

As her daughters grew older, Marianne found a second calling in real estate. Her warmth, professionalism and gift for connecting with people led to a highly successful career spanning many years, earning her numerous awards and the respect of colleagues and clients.

Following Tom’s death, Marianne married William “Bill” Favaro in 1999. The two exchanged vows in Iowa, Bill’s home state. Together they shared a life filled with love, friendship, laughter and adventure. As they approached retirement, they fulfilled a lifelong dream of building their forever home on Lake Panorama, just outside of Des Moines, Iowa. There they enjoyed the slower pace of life, beautiful sunsets, new friends and creating memories together. Still, Marianne never stopped loving California, so they found the perfect compromise — spending their winters in Indian Wells, where they stayed warm and enjoyed a lifestyle that brought them so much happiness. Their beloved dog, Lola Peanut, was a constant companion and completed their little family. Wherever Bill and Marianne went, Lola was usually right beside them.

Whether in Iowa or California, Marianne loved being outdoors — sunbathing by the pool, taking boat rides on the lake, planting flowers, or simply walking around the neighborhood. She was an avid Notre Dame football fan and, more recently, discovered a love for Indiana Fever basketball. At the end of the day, she was just as happy relaxing with a good book and, of course, a glass of chardonnay. 

But nothing brought Marianne more joy than gathering the people she loved — both family and friends she considered family. Holidays were never just for blood relatives; she had a way of making sure everyone had somewhere to go and someone to celebrate with. She had a gift for throwing unforgettable parties, a tradition she proudly passed on to her daughters. Since 2004, one of her greatest joys, and something both she and Bill looked forward to each year, was welcoming their family to the “Lake House” for the Fourth of July. Those who had the privilege of being there know those times were filled with good company, spirited conversation and countless shenanigans around the tiki bar.

Even as her health wavered, Marianne never lost her playful spirit. Just a few weeks before her passing, she surprised her family by agreeing to spend a day at Lost Island Theme Park in Waterloo, Iowa, with her only grandchild, Carter. To everyone’s amazement, she rode roller coasters, tackled a four-story water slide, and laughed her way through the day. Back at home, she remained Carter’s toughest Uno rival, always ready for one more game, which she usually won.

After the heartbreaking loss of her daughter, Brittany, in 2011, Marianne faced many years of chronic pain with quiet strength. While those who love her will miss her every day, they take comfort in knowing she is finally at peace and reunited with Brittany.

Marianne is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Anna Zoul; brothers, Thomas and Timothy Zoul; and her cherished daughter, Brittany Connolly.

She is survived by her devoted husband, William Favaro; her daughter, Shannon Downing, and son-in-law, Brandon Downing; her beloved grandson, Carter Downing; her sisters, Joan (Zoul) Swick and Susan Zoul; her stepson, William Joseph Favaro; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends.

A funeral mass celebrating Marianne’s life was held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Des Moines, Iowa, at noon, with a reception immediately following. A celebration of her life will be held in California at a later date, where she will be laid to rest near Brittany.

Twigg Funeral Home, Panora, was entrusted with her services. 

1940-2026

David Merrill Stolp, 86, passed away on June 4, 2026, at The Bridges in Ankeny. He was born on May 9, 1940, the son of  Merrill and Geraldine (Richman) Stolp in Rochester, Minnesota.

When he was 5, David’s family moved to Jackson, Minnesota, after his father returned from World War II. As a young man, David (Dave) was active in Boy Scouts where he earned the Eagle Scout award. He enjoyed playing football and basketball in high school and was a member of DeMolay. He graduated from Jackson High School in 1958. After completing his freshman year at Iowa State University, Dave enrolled at the University of Minnesota. 

In 1960, Dave married Janet Nielsen, also from Jackson. After Dave graduated in 1961 with a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Minnesota, he and Jan moved to Jackson where he worked for his father at the Jackson Millwork Company. They raised their four sons in Jackson.

Dave’s professional career was in the millwork and building materials industry in Minnesota, Iowa and Nebraska. In addition to Jackson Millwork, he worked for Rodman Industries, Moehl Millwork and Millard Lumber. Dave was president of Moehl Millwork and president of the Millwork Division of Millard Lumber. He was a member of Hoo-Hoo, an international fraternal order of lumbermen.

In 1976, Dave and his family left their hometown of Jackson and moved to West Des Moines, where he worked at Moehl Millwork.

Dave was an active committee member in the Boy Scout troop that his sons attended and enjoyed watching his sons compete in sporting events.

When Dave accepted the position at Millard Lumber, he and Jan moved to Omaha, Nebraska. While living there, they converted their one-story ranch home into a stately two-story home. The Omaha World Herald published a feature article on their renovation.

In 2002, Dave and Jan retired and moved into their custom-built lake-front home on Lake Panorama in Panora. As with all of the places they lived, Dave and Jan enjoyed entertaining family, friends and neighbors, creating many happy memories.

After Jan’s death in 2016 as a result of Alzheimer’s, Dave moved to Guthrie Center. In 2023 he moved to the Mill Pond retirement community in Ankeny.

For leisure activities throughout his life, Dave enjoyed doing home improvement projects, reading (Westerns and history were favorite subjects) and playing golf. He served as president of the Jackson Golf Club. He was also active in the Republican party where he served in various volunteer positions in Minnesota, Nebraska and Iowa at the county, congressional district and state levels.

Dave became a Mason in 1964 and was a member of the Masonic Lodge 121 in Panora.

Raised as a Presbyterian in Jackson, Dave was a practicing Christian throughout his life. He was a member of Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Jackson where he was married. He attended worship services at Lutheran or Methodist churches in West Des Moines, Omaha, Panora, Guthrie Center and Ankeny.

Those left to cherish David’s memory include his sons, Greg (Laurie Kusek) Stolp, Tim (Heidi) Stolp, Jon Stolp and Steve (Maura Theisen-Stolp) Stolp; grandchildren, Kathryn (David Hayman) Stolp, Megan (Ben) Steinheimer, Dylan (Sydney Mock) Stolp, Hannah (Theo) Harris, Samantha Stolp and Jack Stolp; great-grandchildren, Noah Steinheimer, Hayes Harris and Jude Hayman; brother, Rich (Holly) Stolp; and many other loving relatives and special friends.

David was preceded in death by his wife, Janet (Nielsen) Stolp; parents, Merrill and Geraldine (Richman) Stolp; brother, Gary, and sister-in-law, Phyllis (Maguire) Stolp; and daughter-in-law, Lori (Mortenson) Stolp.

No services are planned at this time. Interment will be at the Sunset Memorial Cemetery in Jackson, Minnesota, at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org) in memory of Dave and Jan.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com. 

1943-2026

William “Bill” John Clarke Jr., born Sept. 5, 1943, in St. Louis, Missouri, passed away at home on Sunday, April 19, 2026. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather and as a loyal friend — someone whose steady presence, quick wit and genuine love of conversation made people feel instantly at ease.

Bill was the son of William Clarke, Sr. and Lucille Mae Clarke (LePorin). Raised in St. Louis, Missouri, he graduated from Ritenour High School and carried his hometown pride with him all his life — especially as a loyal St. Louis Cardinals fan for decades.

After high school, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Army and was deployed to Germany — an experience that deepened his sense of responsibility, resilience and pride in serving others. He brought that same steady dependability into every chapter that followed.

Back in the St. Louis area, Bill worked several jobs and — luckily for everyone who came to know their family story — met the love of his life, Jane Shick. They married on Jan. 7, 1967, and built a home filled with laughter, conversation and the kind of loyalty you could count on. Together they welcomed two sons, Sean William Clarke and Brian Matthew Clarke.

In 1976, Bill and Jane moved to Iowa with their two sons, settling on a farm near Jefferson in 1977. A city boy at heart, Bill threw himself into farm life — learning, adapting, and eventually taking over the family farm from Jane’s parents. He worked hard and took pride in doing things the right way, but he also knew how to enjoy the people around him; after a long day on the tractor, he was happiest swapping stories with friends over a cold beer at the lake.

In time, Bill and Jane retired to their home on Lake Panorama, where he lived until his death. They shared nearly 60 years together — hardly a day went by that they weren’t side by side. They spent several winters in Arizona and later in Naples, Florida, and they loved seeing the country: browsing flea markets and antique shops, taking trips to Las Vegas, driving the boat while Jane and the kids waterskied, or enjoying a cozy night in with the Cardinals on TV. No matter where he was, Bill’s top priority was always family, with friends a close second — and he was the kind of person who never turned away someone in need, always ready to lend a hand without keeping score.

Bill is survived by his son, Sean Clarke and Liana, of Naples, Florida; his son, Brian Clarke and his wife Angela, of Long Grove, Illinois; and six grandchildren: Christian, Alexander, Isabella, Ricky, Bobbi and Angelyse.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of almost 60 years, Jane Rae.

A visitation with the family was held Saturday, April 25, at Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home in Jefferson. Bill’s sons, Brian and Sean Clarke, delivered the eulogy. The United States Army Honor Guard presented the American Flag. Services were directed by Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home and Cremation Care, Jefferson.

1944-2026 

Joyce Ann (Stephenson) Groom, 81, of Panora, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Her visitation was held on Sunday, March 8, 2026, from 2-4 p.m. at Hendersons Funeral and Cremation Care in Des Moines. Her funeral service was held on Monday, March 9, 2026, at Hendersons Funeral and Cremation Care at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in the Des Moines Masonic Cemetery. 

She was born on Sept. 3, 1944, in Adair to Wayne and Ruby (Tibben) Stephenson. Joyce grew up in Brayton and graduated from Exira High School in 1962. Shortly after graduation, she began working for the federal government at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. It was there that she met a young Marine, Richard “Dick” Groom. Their meeting quickly became family legend. Dick famously “put out her fire and lit her fire in one motion” when he rescued her after her hair caught fire while she leaned over a gas stove at a party. That unforgettable moment sparked a love story that would last a lifetime. 

Joyce and Dick were united in marriage on May 25, 1963, beginning a partnership that spanned more than 62 years. Together, they were blessed with two sons, Richard “Rick” Jr. and Jon. The couple eventually made their home in Des Moines where they raised their family. Joyce was a devoted and involved mother, serving as a Cub Scouts Den Mother and supporting her boys in every endeavor. After holding several part-time positions, she began her long career with Northwestern Bell (now AT&T) in the early 1970s, where she served as National Account Executive until her retirement in 2006. In retirement, Joyce and Dick moved to Lake Panorama, a place that brought her great joy. She loved golfing, boating and, most of all, creating a fun, welcoming environment for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was the heart of family gatherings, the true matriarch whose strength, warmth and steady presence shaped generations. 

Joyce is survived by her devoted husband, Dick; her son, Jon (Carmen); her grandchildren, Richard “Rick” Groom III (Stephanie), Tanya Foster (Nick), Dallas Groom (Amanda) and Nathan; and her cherished great-grandchildren Mitch Foster, Kennedy Foster, Olivia Groom, Hattie Foster, Anna Groom, Nash Foster, Coen Foster and Asher Groom. She is also survived by her sisters, Janice Clark of Johnston and Jolene Schmidt (Rod) of Waukee, along with many beloved cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her eldest son, Richard “Rick” Jr.; and her brother-in-law, John Clark. Joyce’s legacy lives on in the family she loved fiercely and led faithfully. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. 

1943-2026 

DeVona Pearl Buchanan, lovingly known as “DeeDee,” age 82, was born on Nov. 8, 1943, in Rapid City, South Dakota. Her parents were Bill and Sandie Stevens. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend, DeeDee passed away peacefully on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at Edencrest at Kettlestone in Waukee.

DeeDee grew up in South Dakota and Wyoming and graduated from Interstate 35 High School in Truro in 1961. She went on to attend Americana Academy, graduating from beauty school in 1963. On Dec. 20, 1963, she married Edward Buchanan. DeeDee spent the majority of her career owning and operating her own hair salon. She retired when she and Ed moved to Lake Panorama in Panora. They were longtime members of St. Cecilia Catholic Church.

Throughout her life, DeeDee embraced adventure and connection. She enjoyed camping, golfing, snow skiing, water skiing, gardening and traveling alongside Ed across the country. An avid traveler, she proudly visited all 50 states and numerous countries. Above all, DeeDee cherished time spent with her family and friends and fondly treasured the many winters she and Ed spent in Orange Beach, Alabama.

DeeDee is survived by her son, Bill (Malloree) Buchanan of Raphine, Virginia; her daughter, Tonia (Stan) Rouse of Dexter; her grandchildren, Tyler and Tanner Buchanan, and Kyl, John and Katelynn Rouse; her siblings, Sherry (Roger) Mason, Ginny Stevens, Joni (Larry) Nelson and Kelly (Sandy) Stevens; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Buchanan, and her parents, Bill and Sandie Stevens.

Cremation has taken place. Funeral Mass was at 10 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, Panora.  Visitation was Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, from 5-7 p.m. with a Rosary at 7 p.m. at the Twigg Funeral Home, Panora. Burial of her cremains will be in the Conway Cemetery, Conway.