Donald Curtis Skinner

Captain Donald Curtis Skinner passed away peacefully at home on September 12, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Donald was born on February 17, 1950, in Osceola, Iowa, to Maurice and Arwilda (Curtis) Skinner. He grew up in Norwood and graduated from Chariton High School in 1968.

On May 17, 1970, he married the love of his life, Peggy (Burgess), and together they shared 55 wonderful years of marriage. Their union was a testament to enduring love and partnership. They raised three children: Troy, Trent, and Traci.

Don worked most of his life as a banker and mortgage broker, where his professionalism and integrity built trust with countless families. Beyond his career, his true passion was coaching. As a volunteer, he devoted years to coaching at Des Moines Hoover and Des Moines North, where he impacted the lives of many young adults. His guidance, encouragement, and example extended far beyond the court, leaving a lasting impact on all. Don had a gift for making everyone feel important and like they were part of the family, a quality that defined his character and will be remembered by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife Peggy; his children Troy (Leticia) Skinner of Des Moines, Trent (April) Skinner of California, and Traci (Adam) Crabb of Des Moines. He was a proud Papa to Troy Jr., Traden, Travious, Trajen, and Trice; Isaiah, Trinity, Quinton, Saylah, Xavery, and Lyric; and Carson, Payton, Christian, and Cameron; great-granddaughter, Novamae; sister Kay (Skinner)Riddle of Florida; brother Douglas (Sherrill) Skinner of Newton; and many in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Donald was preceded in death by his parents.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Peggy, their children and spouses, his grandchildren and great-granddaughter, his siblings, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A private family military burial will be held on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Adel, Iowa. A Celebration of Life open house will follow the same day from 2:00–6:00 p.m. at Christopher’s, one of Don’s favorite restaurants, located at 2816 Beaver Ave, Des Moines.

Memorial contributions can be made to Coach Skinner’s Memorial Fund at desmoinesfoundation.org/CoachSkinner or mailed to the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, 1915 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309. The fund will benefit a boys basketball player at both Des Moines Hoover and Des Moines North who demonstrates the same selflessness, dedication, and leadership that Don lived by.