Derek Wade Rossow

Derek Wade Rossow was born on Oct. 30, 1978, in Jefferson to Mark and Mary Rossow. His mother often referred to him as a “little tornado,” as he was a very active child.

At age 6, he started his participation on swim team. Baseball was another sport he loved, and he was also active in basketball and football.

He attended Kirkwood Community College in Iowa City and Arapahoe Community College in Denver as well. There he was trained in phlebotomy.

He worked as a phlebotomist at hospitals in Denver and Pueblo, Colo., Kansas City, Mo., and at BioLife Plasma Center in Ames and Ankeny.

He was a member of Ankeny First United Methodist Church and was active in their programs, The Road and Alpha. Derek followed all Hawkeye sports and had recently become a fishing enthusiast.

He loved the role of uncle to his nephew, Dane. The two of them enjoyed sandy beaches, lakes, swimming pools, playground parks and water fights.

Derek passed away from a cardiac event at home on March 20.

He was preceded in death by his father, Mark Rossow.

Survivors include his mother, Mary Leichsenring (Dale), of Ankeny; brother Aaron Rossow, of Kansas City; former sister-in-law Chrissy Rossow and nephew Dane Rossow, both of Kansas City; aunt, uncles and cousins.

A private family graveside service will be held on March 27 at Ferguson Cemetery in Lake View. Memorials are suggested to the Ankeny First United Methodist Church.

Slininger-Schroeder Funeral Home in Jefferson is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at sliningerschroeder.com.

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Jefferson Bee & Herald
Address: 200 N. Wilson St.
Jefferson, IA 50129

Phone:(515) 386-4161