David Lee Hamlin
September 03, 1943 — August 23, 2024
David Lee Hamlin, 80, went Home to be with the Lord on August 23, 2024. David was born September 3, 1943 to Leota and Jim Hamlin in Bondurant, Iowa where he graduated high school and met the love of his life, Edna (Justice) which he spent the last 61 years married to. David will be remembered by his wife, Edna, son, Rob, granddaughter, Hannah (Trevor), as well as many other family members and friends. David is proceeded in life by his son, Jason (Tonya), brothers Jim and Dan, sisters Sharilynne and Dana, along with other family members and friends.
While in school, David worked in the family’s automotive service station where customers would marvel at his mechanical prowess as he serviced their vehicles. David served in the Vietnam War as a patrol sergeant. After returning home from Vietnam, David and Edna settled in Altoona and then Ankeny to raise a family. David ran the family furniture store before he went to build his career with the Urbandale Police Department. He served 34 years with the Department, as an officer, sergeant, and Chief for the last 28 years prior to retiring in 2009. In retirement, David spent a portion of his time volunteering with the Polk County Jail Ministry where he mentored inmates weekly, sharing the word of the Lord. David was one who loved to make people laugh and smile and never held back how he was feeling. He was a light to be around and cared for those around him deeply. David enjoyed spending time outdoors, admiring and feeding the wildlife in his backyard, fishing, and with his various pets over the years.
The visitation for David will be held on Thursday, August 29th from 5:00-7:00 pm at Capital City Church on 5990 NE 14th Street Des Moines, IA. The funeral for David will be held on Friday, August 30th at 10:00 am at Capital City Church. Friends and family are invited to join the family after the funeral for a luncheon at the Church.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com
Bill McCarthy
09/19/2024
Met Dave when he applied for the Urbandale Chiefs position. My self and Lt Baker did his back ground investigation for the Mayor. Obviously he did great and became the Chief. Over the years I came to appreciate his steadfastness in dealing with issues he believed were right and the integrity he was known for by all. My sympathies and prayers to his family.
Marty White, Class of '62
09/04/2024
Edna and family, So sorry to learn of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Godspeed. Marty and Katy White
William Moulder
08/31/2024
I did not learn of David's passing until today. I was a colleague of his in Law Enforcement. He was one of the first area Police Chiefs to meet with me after I was appointed to the Des Moines Police Department.
I really treasured working with him. He had a way of framing issues that opened up new understanding of matters and he would do it with wit. He a valuable member of the profession and I missed working with him after his retirement.
We were better off for his service .
Ross McCarty
08/29/2024
Dave, you were an excellent Chief and mentor to me. I am forever grateful. I saved some of your witticisms shared over the years. Here are three: 1) Most of the stuff people worry about ain't going to happen anyway. 2) Remember, silence is sometimes the best answer. 3) Live a good honorable life. Then when you get older and think back, you'll enjoy it a second time.
And 3 more from the 300 quotes you wrote out for me, A) Timing is everything in a rain dance. B) Don't corner something that is meaner than you are C) Faith is necessary for victory.
Rest in peace David and enjoy the victory, we will meet again.
Paul Dekker
08/28/2024
I was very sorry to learn of Dave's passing, and wish I was in town to express my sympathies personally. It was great working with Dave for many years at the City of Urbandale. The City benefitted greatly from his integrity and insight, and his leadership as Police Chief brought stability and professionalism to the Department.
John Gray
08/28/2024
Dave was a great friend to law enforcement, with a trove of thoughts and wisdom to impart. It was always great to see him at the Chiefs' meetings where we often sat together. He was a true encouragement to me, as we shared our common experience of being promoted from the rank of Sergeant to Police Chief. So many good memories. Thanks Dave!
Phil Bale
08/28/2024
Dave gave me a chance by hiring me at UPD in 1982.
I always admired and trusted him. A genuinely nice man.
I was honored when Dave came to my father's visitation in '96. Nearly 8 years after I left the department.
Sioux Newberg
08/27/2024
R.I.P. bro! You really have to behave yourself now! Bet God had a lot of questions for you, hope you skipped the witty comments! You don't want to be put in time out! Thanks for being a real brother to me! Love You! Susie