I just found out about Mikes passing.  Mike volunteered for many people over the years. He always found time to assist those in need such as transportation to medical appointments , grocery store, or any emergency situation where he could be of assistance.  Mike Perry did so much for others!! I’m unsure if he was ever given some type of  proper acknowledgment for all his years of volunteering.  Im personally thanking Mike for all the hours of time he spent helping me with errands, appointments and he constantly gave his time whenever I needed him. Thank you Mike Perry!  You may be gone but you’ll always be remembered by those you gave hours of your time too or your family whom you spoke highly of from one of many of my memories.  Troy I never knew you however your father beamed with pride about your accomplishments. I’m truly sorry for your loss.  As for Mikes wife who he cherished very very much, I would like to say to you how sorry I am for your tremendous loss.  There will never be another Mike Perry.   I too miss him!

I just heard of Mike's passing.  I'm so sorry  Betty, for your loss.  Mike was one of the good guys.  From our days at Niles house at ISU, to the years beyond, he was a cheerful, always friendly voice from my past.  Reading all the notes here, reminds me of how loved and respected he was by so many people.   Prayers for you and your family.
Jerry Yeast

So saddened to hear of the loss of Mike. He always had time to share thoughts and advise and a friendly hello whenever I had the good fortune of sharing time with him at DMACC or around town in Ankeny.

We have lost a great friend.  Kathy and I have enjoyed Mike and Betty’s friendship for over 50 years. Even though we moved from Ankeny in 1972 we have visited and kept in touch. I am going to miss his phone calls and wonderful spirit. Betty our thoughts  and prayers are with you and Troy.




I worked with Mike for several years on the board of Senior College of Greater Des Moines. He was always interested in making sure we offered a variety of experiences for seniors. 


What a wonderful gentleman and a truly good guy.  Mike a.k.a. "The Dean of Darkness" will be truly missed.  Thanks, Mike !  You made a big difference in so many lives. 

Betty and family;  Ginny and I add our thoughts and prayers on the passing of a good friend and colleague.  One great memory (among many) was Mikes' capacity to remember the four digit extension numbers of staff back in the early days.  Didn't need the directory.   He was so kind and so willing to help those in need.  Rest in peace.   

Mike was a diehard Cyclone fan. I can’t believe all the games he attended over the years and if they lost the game it was always the ref’s fault.
Mike was a great guy to work with in student services and was always willing to lend a hand when needed. We will miss him. Our sympathy to Betty and family. 

Ronda and Jon,

I am going to miss getting calls from Mike.  Even though they became more difficult these last couple years.  I have known Mike for over 60 years, starting with CUE at Fairview and Bethel youth groups.  He was such a nice man...so kind and generous with his friendships.  I pray for your peace at this time.  I believe I will see him again.  God Bless.

Carole (King) Bayeur-Dawson 

Please accept my deep and heartfelt sympathy for your loss.  Mike was such a special person who showed us how to live with joy, courage, and integrity.  He will be greatly missed.   

Betty, so sorry to hear the passing of Mike! I always enjoyed visiting with him at Dr.John Weigel’s office, catching up on our cyclones! ❤️
Sending prayers and hugs to all f you! Linda Ballard 

Mike provided me with a very friendly, warm welcome to DMACC back in 1997. Following his retirement, he provided me with great support at the Des Moines Higher Education Collaborative / Pappajohn Education Center downtown and remained a dear friend through the years. Always a generous, kind, warm-hearted man who believed in and supported others whenever, however possible.  His contributions are significant, and he will be greatly missed.  

Mike is one of the primary reasons that DMACC is such a success. His passion for students and endless support for his coworkers was infectious. Then, there was his smile when he had a new idea, and he had many of them. Our records show that he retired in 2003. Truthfully, I don't think he ever left. A life well lived and we will all miss him! - Rob Denson, DMACC President

Mike was so encouraging and positive.  I got to know him when I was teaching evening classes for the nursing program.  He would come around to classes if the weather was bad and get us out a little earlier, otherwise we were there until 9:30 -10:00 pm.  Some times he would just drop in and to say hello.  If we had a question he would find the answer and get back to us that evening. He led by serving. He did a lot for DMACC.


I am saddened to hear of Mike’s passing and wish to express my condolences to Betty and his family. I liked working with him and enjoyed his sense of humor. He will definitely be missed. 

Jayne Smith

Mike Perry was a great colleague.  Always positive, kind and helpful.
  I enjoyed working with him when he was night dean and later directed senior college.  at the Poppajohn Center downtown.

dick wagner



I so enjoyed seeing Mike on campus.  To me, he was the face of the "Ask Me" program when DMACC Pioneers helped to direct students at the beginning of each semester.  His smile and twinkle in his eyes showed how much he loved DMACC and especially the students.  He will be missed greatly.  Sending love and prayers to his family and to all who loved him.

My deepest  sympathy to Michael's wife Betty and family, I will miss visiting with him at our meetings. Michael was our advocate for news. He had a heart of gold and cared about his friends 
My prayers will stay with the family.
Judy Sheets 

When I first met Mike he described his job as "the Dean of the Darkness".   At that time he was the Dean of the Evening College.
Mike was always cheerful, ready help anyone in need, full of wonderful stories, and great sense of humor.  He will be missed.

Mike was one of the first and kindest people to welcome me when I first came to DMACC 20 years ago.  He was always eager to answer questions and helpful in every way.  Students lost a strong and sincere advocate when Mike left.
My deepest condolences to his family.

I was always pleased to see Mike with his friendly smile and energetic open manner. He was a good friend and help for DMACC students and teachers.  I send love to his family and friends.

OBITUARY

Michael Don Perry

December 31, 1942 – April 28, 2023

Ankeny Funeral Home & Crematory

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