Alan John Trainer passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at the young age of 78. A loving husband, father and grandfather, Alan, known as “PopPop,“ will be greatly missed.
Alan was born on July 1, 1947, in Buffalo, New York, to parents Alexander Trainer and Melania “Mildred” Szczepanski. His parents later moved the family to Memphis, Tennessee. At an early age, Alan was diagnosed with scoliosis and spent almost an entire year in a full-body cast. During that time, he developed an interest in amateur radio that became a lifelong hobby. Alan later attended the University of Memphis, earning a bachelor’s degree. He took a job with Nationwide Insurance as a commercial underwriter, where he worked until his retirement.
Alan was also a devoted Catholic. He would attend weekly Mass at Holy Rosary Church in Memphis, always sitting in a pew behind the lovely Susan Block, whom he later married on Sept. 20, 1974. Together, they brought six children into the world. When his office in Memphis closed, Alan accepted a transfer to West Des Moines, Iowa, where he remained until his passing.
Above all else, Alan loved his family. A proud father and grandfather, he never missed an opportunity to spend time with his family. From homework to walking the dogs and fixing whatever needed fixing, Alan was always available for his family. He instilled lifelong skills amongst his kids and grandkids, always welcoming them to share in his passions as well.
Alan was preceded in passing by his parents, Alexander and Melania Trainer; sisters, Nancy Trainer and Melody Jackson; and sons, Robert and Luke Trainer.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Susan Trainer; son, Joe Trainer; daughters, Annie (Sam) Mitchel, Mary Trainer and Rebecca Trainer; grandkids, Simon Peter Mitchel, Dominic Gerard Mitchel, Samantha Anne Mitchel and Penelope Marie Mitchel; and his three furry four-legged companions, Lucy, Lily and Maggie.
A funeral service was held on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the Basilica of St. John in Des Moines, Iowa, with a burial following at Glendale Cemetery.
