Daniel Korte

Daniel James Korte, age 40 of Aplington, Iowa, formerly of Des Moines, died on Saturday January 9, 2020. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Danny was born on December 3, 1980 to Robert and Maureen (King) Korte. He graduated from Johnston High School, where he was on the wrestling team, and earned his Eagle Scout. He also worked for Kid’s Connection and began his life long practice of Eagle Claw Kung Fu.
Danny attended DMACC, then the University of Iowa, where he earned an undergraduate degree in psychology and a master’s in secondary education. As a graduate student he was on the Judo team and won the heavy weight champion as well as other medals. He taught in New Zealand and then joined the Peace Corps and taught in Thailand; it was there he became a Buddhist Monk. He went on to teach in Costa Rica and then back to Iowa where he worked for the Johnston Schools Kids Connection Program.
In Iowa he met the love of his life, Erin and spend the last two years living together as a family with her three children. He was a world wide backpacker and did yoga and weightlifting. He enjoyed biking, canoeing, and working out. He was an avid reader, and enjoyed film, music, and cooking; as one of his favorite activities was eating. He spent many summers traveling with his cousins and considered them to be his best friends.
Danny is survived by his finance, Erin Monroe, her children Peyton, Sam and Logan, his parents Robert and Maureen King Korte, his bother Patrick (PJ) ,and his wife Emily, his half sister Katherine Harmon, half brother Kelly Korte, dozens of cousins, aunts, uncles and friends. He was preceded in death by his Grandparents, Thomas and Rhea King, Robert and Josephine Korte, his aunt, Sandra Korte Corbin and his aunt Patricia Stadler.
Memorial contributions may be made to the ARL and Iowa Public Television.
Danny’s ashes will be spread at the 165 year old cabin that he and his brother, father and uncles have restored in Colorado. It was one of his favorite places.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.AnkenyFuneralHome.com for the Korte family.