01/09/2021
Philip Ray Bingaman, age 73, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2021, at his home in West Des Moines, Iowa, with his family by his side. His death followed a battle with lymphoma and Covid-19.
Phil was born December 5, 1947, raised in Columbia, Iowa, and graduated from Knoxville High School with the class of 1966.
After graduating, Phil enlisted with the Navy and served during the Vietnam War on the USS Dennis J Buckley (DD-808) as a Radio Operator.
Following his military service, Phil earned a degree from Iowa State University with a Major in Sociology. His first career was as a social worker with the Veterans Hospital. He also worked at the Iowa Department of Human Services, followed by a career in real estate with Iowa Realty and Wells Fargo.
Phil cherished his many friends, relatives, and neighbors. He regularly spent time with friends for “wine on porch” nights, enjoyed daily long walks outdoors, golfing, and cheering on grandkids at sports games, live music, and current affairs. He was known to all as a man who was always humble and kind.
Phil is survived by his brother, Mike Bingaman (Carol and niece); former wife, Deborah Marley; four children, Ben Bingaman (Kyra McLaughlin) and grandchild, Chris Bingaman, Anne Crannell (Scott) and three grandchildren, Jeremy Lewis (Amber) and three grandchildren; cousin Al Bingaman (Amy) and their children.
Phil was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Elnore (Miller) Bingaman.
Arrangements are with Iles Dunn’s Funeral Home in Des Moines. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Knoxville Alumni Association or the Street Collective of Des Moines.
Plans will follow for a memorial service in the spring.