What is the Iowa Veterans Cemetery

In Eastern Iowa many families and veterans are aware of the near-by national cemeteries; Rock Island and Keokuk, but often when discussing these options with families many are not aware the State of Iowa also has a State-run Veterans Cemetery, located just off of Interstate 80, near Van Meter just West of Des Moines. 

The Iowa Veterans Cemetery was the first federally funded construction of a state-owned cemetery.  It is operated by the State of Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs, and was built to accommodate over 80,000 burials.  

The cemetery serves families in the same capacity as a national cemetery; allowing burial of a veteran, veteran’s spouse and dependent children.  They do charge a very small fee for the interment of family members beside the veteran, but compared to local fees for the same services, these are very minimal.

The Iowa Veteran’s Cemetery, like our national cemeteries is a very well maintained and regarded place of respect and reverence for those who have gone before us, and served during times of our country’s need.

The cemetery website has a lot more information about the history of the cemetery, eligibility requirements, regulations and annual events held at the cemetery as well as many photos detailing the different areas and options available to families.

If you would like to learn more about the Iowa Veterans Cemetery, please visit their website at https://va.iowa.gov/cemetery or contact either Dan or Adam at the funeral home, we’d be happy to answer your questions.