Paul Stanger

Paul Norman Stanger, age 81, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026, at the Des Moines VA CLC surrounded by his family. He was born on May 23, 1944, in Des Moines, Iowa, to John and Katherine (Holt) Stanger. 

Paul graduated from East High School in 1962. He attended Grand View University for a year before joining the Air Force where he was stationed in Washington State and deployed to Vietnam for his last year of service. Upon his return, he attended the University of Minnesota while also working the night shift at Pillsbury. After graduation, Paul worked for Central Life where good friends introduced him to his wife. 

He married Coleen Ellen Golob on June 29, 1973, in Des Moines, Iowa where they continued to live. They expanded their family by adopting their two children, JD and Katie, from South Korea. He loved to go on family trips, especially to Glacier National Park and the Pacific Northwest. Paul loved to travel by train, play golf, read books, listen to audio books and talk with extended family and friends.

He is survived by his children: JD (Jodi) Stanger of New Prague, MN and Katie Fox of Altoona, IA, his pride and joy grandchildren: Anthony Dennis, Andrew, Issac and Lexa Stanger, Kora and Mylah Johnson, his sister: Marcia along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his wife, Coleen, his parents, John and Katherine, his siblings: Olive, J.D. (John David), Yontz, Virginia and Mace.

The family would like to thank all those that made visits and phone calls with Paul especially Priscilla, Peggy & Rich, Kelly Family, Den Adels, Ester, Sally and Bob whom he loved like a brother. Thank you to the VA staff that took great care of Paul during his time there. 

A private committal service will be held at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery at a later date.