Darwin Joseph Schulte, age 93, passed away on May 21, 2024, at Sunnyview Care Center in Ankeny, IA.  Darwin was the youngest of five children born to Edmund and Agnus (Heisterkamp) Schulte on December 30, 1930, in Breda, IA.  He attended grade school and high school at St. Bernard's in Breda.

He attended C.E. Business College in Omaha, NE.   After graduation, he worked for Omaha Coal Storage as a Cost Accountant for one year.  In April 1950, he began his career with Montgomery Ward, managing stores in Junction City, KS., Manhattan, KS., Kansas City, MO., and Cheyenne, WY.

Darwin was united in marriage to Joan Brincks on August 8, 1950, at St. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Carroll, IA. They were happily married for 51 years until Joan's death on June 3, 2002.

Darwin enlisted with the United States Army, proudly and honorably serving his country from 1952 to 1954.

In 1974, he was awarded the honor of opening and operating the new Montgomery Ward store in Des Moines, IA.  He retired from Montgomery Ward in 1982.

An avid fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and he enjoyed tailgating while they lived in Kansas City.  They eventually moved, however Darwin continued to follow the Chiefs on TV, with his favorite snack; popcorn and two beers.

He was actively engaged in many community organizations and activities during his life.   He loved family gatherings, especially the Fourth of July and supplied watermelon for the celebration every year.

Darwin met Kay Osthus in 2005.  They were married on May 19, 2007, at Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines, IA., and enjoyed 17 wonderful years together.

Survivors include his current wife, Kay Osthus of West Des Moines.  Stepchildren, Kristine Wazio (John Jr) of Batavia, IL., David (Shelli) Osthus of Urbandale IA., five step-grandchildren; Lauren, Matthew, Grace, Emma, and Parker.  His sister Pam (John) McCaslin of Omaha, NE., as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents, first wife, Joan, sisters Norma Jean (Frank) Gehling, Doris Ann (Rufus) Boes, and Nelda (Elmer) Wolterman.

Per his wishes, Darwin has been cremated. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 30, 2024, at Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines, IA.   A luncheon will follow at the church.   Afterward, he will be transported to St. Bernard's Catholic Cemetery in Breda, IA., for a military graveside service and burial.