Michael Lloyd WondersDes MoinesMichael Wonders, 79, passed away at Mercy Hospital on Wednesday, January 25, 2017 surrounded by loved ones. Funeral services will be held 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 31st at McLaren's Chapel. A private inurnment will be held at Resthaven Mausoleum at a later date. Michael was born on October 4, 1937 to Ruby and Lloyd Wonders in Newton, Iowa. He lived the majority of his life in Des Moines with his partner of fifty years, LaVerne Johnson. Michael served in the U.S. Army for four years and retired from a long fulfilling career at Meredith Corporation in 2001. His greatest joys in life included entertaining, finding diamonds in the rough, and creating beautiful art and arrangements. In his later life, he could often be found reading a James Patterson novel, walking the mall, and enjoying time with friends and loved ones. Michael was preceded in death by his siblings, Donna Maddex, Dean, Bill, and Jack. He is survived by his life partner, LaVerne Johnson; daughter, Kelle (John) Collins; three grandchildren, Katie (Clint) Manny, Bryan Collins, Molly Collins; and three great-grandchildren, Avery, Ryer, and Parker Manny.Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday at McLaren's Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the ARL as Michael truly loved animals.