Donald "Don" Florke

After a long battle with cancer, Donald “Don” Florke, 79, of Cherokee, Iowa, passed away on April 14, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his family and his beloved dog, Rascal.

Don was born in Sioux City, Iowa, to Amil and Alice Florke on November 5, 1943. He grew up in Larrabee with his brother Larry, working on the family farm and playing high school basketball. At Larrabee School he developed lifelong friendships and an appreciation for learning.  There, Don met his first wife Karen (McKeighan) Salmen (Storm Lake)with whom he had three children. 

Don fondly remembered his childhood as an idyllic time focused on family and farming. He took pride in living on the family farm in Larrabee. Throughout his life, Don loved working outdoors, planting and harvesting crops, and restoring his beloved vintage Oliver tractor. He was a devoted father and grandfather who created a place in his heart for each individual, even as his family continued to grow. 

Don is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years Marcia (Irwin) Florke and his three children Renae Malloy (Del City, OK), Randy (Cold Spring, NY) and Ronnie (Hartley, IA). Son-in-laws Scott Malloy (Del City, OK) and Sean Patrick Maloney (Cold Spring, NY). His three stepsons Randy (Cherokee), Robbie (Kingsley) and Greg (Cherokee). Step-daughter-in-laws Carol (Cherokee), Tammi (Kingsley), and Laurie (Cherokee). His brother Larry and sister-in-law Barbara (Defiance, OH). And grandchildren Jennifer, Jessica, Allan Joseph, Kayla, Morgon, Jacob, Adrianna, Reiniel, Daley, and Essex. Great grandchildren Dylan, Lexi, Quinton, Brian, Leo, Jaxson, and Alice. Great-great grandchild Giovanni. Step-grandchildren Joshua, Jasmine, Jennifer, Cole, Ashton, Heather, and Hunter. Step-great grandchildren Braxton, Colt, Scarlett, Payton, Wyatt and Tucker, as well as beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A Celebration of Don's Life will be announced at a later date.