The Native Iowan

Just got the news that my old friend and family member, Don Verrips passed away.

I have not seen Don since 2017. It’d been decades since I’d seen him, but we picked up where we’d left up, got caught up, and were “close” again.

I first met Don in 1966/ 67. He was dating my sister. I was 7 and he was 16/17 when we first met. He very much left a firm stamp on my growing up. A small dude, he was fierce, like little dudes are.

The marriage with my sister did not last but his argumentative, aggressive attitude suited me so we were friends all along.

His only offspring, Daughter Tracey, embodies his attitude in a fine style. She is tough, not to be messed with, articulate and vocal. And very short.

Don never weighed 120pounds, with ball bearings in his pocket. Even when we last met he was basically a runt. But not one to be challenged or messed with. The size of the fight in the dog kinda thing.

So here is to Don…

Ive searched for a photo and will keep looking I know I have some.

Adios buddy…