The world became less bright on January 12, with the passing of David Churchill, with his wife, Diane ńee Shelby, at his side. David passed from lung cancer, a side effect of his service as a Seabee for the United States Navy, from his time in Vietnam's exposure to agent orange. He never complained.

David was born in Detroit, Michigan and was raised in Troy and Birmingham. Besides Michigan and Iowa, David worked as an Architect and Building Inspector in Florida and other states. He attended Birmingham Michigan Seaholm High School and received his architectural degree at Laurence Tech. University in Detroit. Before retirement, David worked as Construction Services Administrator for the City of Clive, Iowa.

David's infectious laughter, dry wit, generosity and compassion brought joy to everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him. David was a gardener, and an artist who loved carpentry, furniture building, jewelry making, etching, leaded glass, and he taught himself many artistic skills, even after suffering a stroke inhibiting his right hand. He lived his life until he died. David loved music of all kinds. He said his favorite band, Lord Huron, and their followers helped him fight 57 months of stage 4 cancer. He felt blessed meeting this band and world-wide group of compassionate people.

David said the last 24 years of his life were the best with Diane, remodeling his 1890s home on 5 acres, and rescuing all sorts of animals. He said they taught him empathy.

David was the father of MSgt Cory Churchill and the late Alissa Churchill; grandfather of Matthew, Maci, Bentley, Braylee, Amelia Churchill (Kristal Brightwell Churchill), Adalee Hayden (Alan and Valerie Hayden) and the late Aurora Churchill Haugen.

A Graveside service with military rites will be held at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery, Adel, at a future date. Donations can be made in David's name to Kiya Koda Animal No-kill Shelter, 1206 Jefferson Way, Indianola, IA  50125, and/or Helping Hands of Warren County, 109 E. Clinton Ave., Indianola, IA 50125.