David Calhoun

David Richard Calhoun, 68, of rural Mount Pleasant passed away at his home on Saturday, May 31, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Dave was born on Jan. 13, 1957, in Mount Pleasant, the first-born son of Victor R. and Marilyn (Mueller) Calhoun Jr.

He served his country in the Iowa National Guard, where he and his cousin and friend enlisted together. Dave was blessed to do what he loved. He had a passion and talent on an excavator and truly enjoyed those days. The only way to make the day better was to call one of his sons and have them working alongside him.

He was an entrepreneur at heart and owned and operated Big Creek Contracting. He enjoyed any activity that kept him outdoors. At a very young age he would go with his father to learn the art of hunting and trapping and most of all spending time together.

Dave and Cookie enjoyed being in the boat on the Skunk River fishing and had a passion for Oakland Mills and its history. The river was a place to spend time together and relax. They enjoyed taking their grandchildren out in the boat teaching them how to fish and sharing an appreciation of the outdoors.

The love of family was central to his upbringing, and he raised his children with that same heart and commitment. He had many things that he loved but nothing more than his family. When one would call for help, he was always there to lend a hand. He enjoyed the traditions of big family gatherings and loved being able to spend time together sharing stories and laughs.

Dave was a great listener and made time for his nieces and nephews whom he loved and who loved him dearly. Dave was a Christian and lived his life by Matthew 25:36 "I needed clothes, and you clothed me, I was sick, and you looked after me….." He lived his life never turning his back on someone in need, giving his time, talent and treasure. He loved his kids and would never turn down a child with a cause. Dave never knew a stranger and always treated everyone he met with compassion and respect.

Those thankful in sharing in his life include his companion of 24 years, Cookie, and his children, Ben (Sheri) Calhoun and Chad (Andrea) Calhoun; his grandchildren, Alex, Zach, Grace, Austin, Addie and Drew; his mother, Marilyn Calhoun; his brothers, Dale (Becky) Calhoun and Joe Calhoun, and his sister, Mary (Alan) Raymer, along with a host of nieces and nephews and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his father and his grandparents.

Dave's family will host a celebration of his life on Saturday, June 14, at 1405 West Clay Street, Mount Pleasant beginning at 3 p.m. In case of inclement weather, it will be held at the Wright Pavilion on the Midwest Old Threshers grounds.

A memorial has been established in his memory. Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Murphy Funeral Home of Mount Pleasant.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.murphyfuneralandmonuments.com

Murphy Funeral Home of Mount Pleasant, is caring for his arrangements.