Dennis Van Zuuk

Dennis Leland Van Zuuk was born on October 21, 1947, in Knoxville, Iowa, the son of Joann Fankhauser. Dennis, age 77, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the VA Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa. 

At the age of 20 Dennis answered the call to serve his country enlisting in the United States Navy. From October 1967 until April 1969, he proudly served during the Vietnam War. During his service, he earned multiple honors including the National Defense Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, and the Vietnam Service Medal with Two Bronze Stars. Dennis’ time in the Navy was a defining chapter in his life, shaping his lifelong values of courage, dedication, and brotherhood that carried with him throughout the years.

Dennis met the love of his life, Pamela, in 1969, after he came home from the service. They started their lifelong journey by having two daughters, Dena and Robin. Dennis spent many years working at Canteen, a vending machine supplier company.

Dennis built a life that was centered around family, community, and many of his passions. He loved collecting steins and diecast NASCAR cars, cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes, and coaching his daughters in basketball. Above all, Dennis loved going camping and spending time with his family where some of his happiest memories were made around the fire, under the stars, and enjoying the outdoors.

Dennis will be remembered as a devoted husband, sibling, father, grandfather, and friend. His love for family was evident in every part of his life, from the sidelines of the basketball court to the quiet nights at the campground. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. He will always be our forever hero.

Dennis is survived by his two daughters, Dena (Jon) Armstrong and Robin (Jeff) Hink, his six grandchildren Ashlee (Seth) McVey, Jeff (Kelsey) McVey, Taylor (Madison), Emily, Jacob, and Ryan Hink, 5 great-grandchildren, his four siblings Debbie (Steve) Scott, Dan (Sue) Van Zuuk, David (Julie) Van Zuuk, BilliJo (Dondi) Weaver, and several nieces and nephews.

Dennis was preceded in death by his loving wife Pamela, mother Joann Fankhauser, grandparents John and Elanor Harvey, Delores and Bill Van Zuuk and several cousins.

A visitation for Dennis will be held at Sunset Memorial Chapel (7601 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA 50321) on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 10 AM. Following the visitation, there will be a Celebration of Life starting at 11 AM followed by a burial with military honors at Sunset Memorial Gardens (7601 Fleur Drive, Des Moines, IA 50321). After the burial, everyone is welcome to a luncheon back in the chapel for stories and good food.