Daryl Dean Harris

Daryl Dean Harris, born on August 12, 1931, in Council Bluffs, Iowa, passed away February 20, 2026, at MercyOne Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa.

Daryl proudly served in the United States Air Force, a testament to his commitment to his country and the values he held dear. After his military service, he built a life filled with cherished memories and a loving family. Daryl married the love of his life, Helen Jeanette Dubay, on June 7, 1952, in Collinsworth, Connecticut. Their union was strong and enduring; they celebrated 71 years of marriage before Jeanette's passing in 2024, a partnership that exemplified devotion and companionship.

Together, Daryl and Jeanette shared a passion for life and adventure. In their younger years, they enjoyed riding motorcycles, creating memories as they journeyed across the roads of America. One of their favorite pastimes was traveling to the East Coast in the fall, where they took in the breathtaking beauty of the changing leaves. Antiquing was another shared interest that brought joy to their lives, allowing them to explore history and find treasures along the way.

Daryl's legacy continues through his beloved granddaughters, Jessica Carey of Earlham, Iowa, and Ashley Harris of DeSoto, Iowa. They will carry forward the values he instilled in them and the love he shared with them throughout his life.

He is preceded in death by his cherished wife, Jeanette; son, Michael Harris; brother, Gary Harris; and his parents. Daryl will be remembered fondly, missed deeply, and celebrated for all that he was to those he leaves behind.

Daryl will be laid to rest next to his wife and son at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines, Iowa.

Ernst Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Waukee has been entrusted with Daryl's final arrangements.