Obituary

West Branch, Iowa

Donald M. Alvarado, 80, died on Tuesday, November 13, 2007 at his home in West Branch following a brief illness.

A sharing, Veteran’s Salute, and reception to celebrate his life will be held Saturday, November 24th, 2007 at 6:00-9:30 at the Henderson-Barker Funeral Home in West Branch.

Don was born December 19, 1926 in New Orleans, Louisiana the son of Alfonso and Bertha Couture Alvarado. He was a graduate of A.I. DuPont High School in Wilmington, Delaware, the University of Iowa, and Johns Hopkins University.

Don was a retired professor of medical illustration at Louisiana State University (LSU) Medical School in New Orleans, Louisiana. He worked as an illustrator and collaborator on the 100th Year 27th Edition, and the 28th and 29th American Editions of Gray’s Anatomy. He served as a visiting professor for a year at the University of Tromsø, Norway, and worked as a consultant for the World Health Organization in Bangladesh. In addition, he was a retired Lieutenant Colonel with the United States Army serving for 32 years.

On November 22, 1975 he was united in marriage to Bonita (Bonnie) Jerry in New Orleans, LA.

Upon retirement, he moved to Iowa in 1982, returned to graduate school, and spent years renovating his Victorian-style home in West Branch. He was a simulated patient instructor for many years at the University of Iowa Medical School, participated in numerous research studies, and was proud to have donated over 100 pints of blood to UIHC.

Don loved life, and most importantly he loved his family and friends. His canine companions held a special place in his heart, and he had been active in Keeshond rescue. He enjoyed teaching, traveling, photography, and music and considered himself a joyful student of life.

Survivors include his wife Bonnie Jerry of West Branch. One son: Daniel, wife Debra, Alvarado of Ladora, Iowa and one daughter: Denise Alvarado of West Liberty. Three Grandchildren: Brooke Danielle Alvarado, Brandon Davidson Alvarado and Sarah, husband Troy, Stauffer. Two great grandchildren: Dominic and Dylan. One sister: Nancy, husband Norman, Hall. Also surviving is a brother-in-law Hal Jackson as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, son Michael Jon Alvarado, sister Shirley Jackson and an infant brother.

Memorials may be made to Iowa City Hospice or donate a pint of blood in his memory.