Wayne C. Burger

Wayne Chavey Burger, 93, passed into eternal life with Christ in heaven on October 7, 2024. He was born to Lloyd Lester Leroy and Esther Margaret (Walker) Burger on October 24, 1930 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

During his jr. high school years his family moved to Des Moines. After graduating from Roosevelt High School, Wayne attended Iowa State University. He was a member of Delta Tau Delta and received an Agriculture Economics Degree. He proudly served in the Army during the Korean War, stationed in Fort Riley, Kansas as company clerk, earning the rank of sergeant. He met the love of his life, Phyllis, on a blind date and they married on October 16, 1954.

Wayne was a salesman at heart, building relationships with customers wherever he traveled. He began his own commercial decorating business, Wayne Manufacturing, spreading Christmas cheer to towns across the U.S., finally retiring at age 81. He was active in his local church until his health prevented attending in person.

Wayne was a devoted husband to Phyllis for almost 70 years, a dedicated father to their four children, and shared the enjoyment of fishing and God’s creation with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his sons, W. Steven (Marti) Burger and Kenneth Burger; daughter, Peggy (Steven) Klinefelter; 12 grandchildren; and 32 great-grandchildren.

Wayne was preceded in death just seven weeks prior by his wife, Phyllis Joan; his parents, Lloyd Lester Leroy and Esther M. Burger; his brother, William L. Burger; and his daughter, Penny Sue Burger.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines with visitation one hour prior. Burial will follow at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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