Stehl, David Michael 1971-2007

STEHL, CHALUPA, GARRELS

Posted By: Volunteer Transcriber
Date: 3/27/2017 at 17:32:53

David Stehl
1971-2007

David Michael Stehl, 35, passed away early Sunday morning, April 29, 2007. David was born on July 6, 1971, in Augusta, Georgia and spent most of his life in Des Moines, Iowa. David was raised in Des Moines and graduated from Hoover High School in 1989. He attended both Iowa State University and the University of Iowa where he studied graphic arts and photography. David is survived by his parents, Ronald and Janice (Chalupa) Stehl, his younger brother, Thomas (St. Louis, MO), and a large extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents and a loving uncle, Dr. Dale Garrels.

David was a nature lover. He would often take road trips to see and photograph the outdoors, spending considerable time at the bird refuge in Lake MacBride State Park. He knew all of the sanctuary's injured birds by name. David was an artist. He created designs in the sketch book that always accompanied him. He used his Apple computer to create art and to communicate with the world beyond Des Moines. He spent time in old bookstores poring over typography, photography, architecture, and all other forms of design. David loved music and dancing. He regularly worked out at the YMCA and did his best to stay in shape. He would also take his beloved dog, Sadie, out for long walks. David loved backgammon and never boasted except when he won against his mother. David was deeply loved by his family, his friends, and the communities of which he was a part. He was especially close to his Aunt Patty, with whom he would share a glass of wine and a cigarette during his frequent visits to her home in rural Iowa. There are no words to express the sadness brought on by his death. David's life, shortened by tragedy, will always be celebrated. A memorial service will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Beaverdale on Thursday, May 3 at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be sent to Eyerly-Ball Community Mental Health Services, 1301 Center Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50309. ~ The Hamilton Funeral Home, Des Moines, Iowa