David Lee Colby

David Lee Colby, 89, of Des Moines, Iowa, went to be with the Lord on May 6, 2024.

David was born on August 26, 1934, in Joice, Iowa to Hubert and Faye Colby. He spent his childhood days growing up in Lake Mills, Peoria, and Belmond, Iowa. David graduated in 1952 from Belmond High School. He served in the Marine Corps for three years and had a life-long career with the Great Western and Chicago Northwestern Railroads, retiring in 1994.

David married Mary DeOn Nelson of Aurelia in 1960 in Ames, Iowa. To this blessed union, they had three daughters: Lori, Tami, and Wendy. David and DeOn shared 38 special years of marriage together, living in Eagle Grove, Oelwein and Boone, Iowa. They enjoyed raising their family and serving in their church. David was a faithful and devoted husband and father. He loved his grandchildren and always made visits to Grandpa’s house a treat. David loved his family! His commitment to his family will always be cherished.

In 1998, David lost his wife, DeOn, to cancer. His love of her and caring for her during her illness will never be forgotten.

In 2001, David remarried Kay Hill and lived in Silver Bay, Minnesota. He enjoyed Lake Superior, the north woods, and the wildlife of Minnesota. David and Kay traveled and enjoyed their life in retirement.

David loved the Lord. David was always known for his big smile, energy, and zest for life! He was a jokester and loved to make people laugh. His love of animals has been passed down to his children and grandchildren. He loved the outdoors and took pride in keeping up the yard. His homes always had flowerbeds and planters, filled with beautiful blooms. His big heart was always helping a friend, neighbor, or stranger. He loved taking care of others and his servant heart will be remembered by all who knew him. He always made the effort to make things extra special.

David was predeceased by his first wife, DeOn, parents Hubert and Faye Colby and sister Harriet Woodin. Survivors include his wife, Kay; his daughters and son-in-laws Lori and Brad Elmitt of Johnston, Tami and Jay Prescott of Urbandale, Wendy and Tom Kelly of Van Meter; 11 grandchildren: Colby (Rachel) Elmitt, Connor (Rebecca) Elmitt, Libby (Colton) Nebel; Drew (Elin), Quinn (Emma) and Elyse Prescott; Mary, Clare, Tommy, Jack and Genevieve Kelly; as well as seven beautiful great grandchildren, and two on the way.

A private burial service will be held at the Linwood Cemetery in Boone, Iowa.

Memorials can be directed to the family to be used to help children in need.

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