In loving memory of David Ernest Caldwell, 71, of Le Mars who passed away Tuesday, December 5, 2023. David was born May 11, 1952, and raised in Strawpump (Irwin), Pennsylvania. He was child number 9 of 12 to the late Paul and Mildred (Exton) Caldwell.  David served honorably as a Petty Officer and Builder with the Sea Bees unit of the U.S. Navy based in San Diego, CA from 1971-1975.  He worked as a foreman, with TNT Waterblasting in Hinton, Iowa and previously for Reich Painting in Sioux City.

Dave was preceded in death by his siblings, George (Shirley) Caldwell, Ken (survived by Phyllis) Caldwell, John (Eary) Caldwell, Patricia (Smitty) Smith and Larry (Dorothy) Caldwell. He was also preceded in death by his close friend, Debbie Dreckman, and by his significant other, Kerry Nigg.

He is survived by his daughter, Colleen (Brian) Mossor of Beaverton, Oregon and siblings; Pauline Klingensmith, Roy Caldwell (Helen), Dolly Kelly (Bruce), Marion Parker (Larry), Cindy Caldwell and Brian Caldwell as well as dozens of nieces and nephews. Dave was a cherished part of a large and loving family.

Dave will be remembered and missed dearly by his many friends, neighbors and co-workers in Le Mars where he lived for the last 20 years and will be recalled fondly as "Painter" Caldwell to his clients and colleagues from the surrounding areas. He was groundskeeper and an active member of the Le Mars Sportsman Club and he spearheaded the annual Fishing Derby to benefit local children. He enjoyed fishing, trapshooting, frequenting local pubs and was the local cribbage champion (by his own account). His easy-going mannerisms, willingness to help anyone and his practical, private take on life and living were treasured by all. Not surprisingly, to those who knew him, Dave did not want any 'fuss' or ceremony around his passing.  Family members will be in Le Mars Dec 16-19th and welcome the opportunity to meet his local friends and 'family.' All are welcome to bear witness to his burial. He will be laid to rest at Hillside Cemetery in Merrill, Iowa on December 17, 2023, at 3:00 pm to be near to his beloved partner, in life and in death, Kerry.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Dave's name to the Le Mars Sportsman's Club Fishing Derby, PO Box 75, Le Mars, IA  51031 or San Franciso CASA at www.sfcasa.org

*Information, photos and expressions of sympathy can be shared and extended to the family through www.rexwinkelfh.com .