David Anthony LaCombe

David Anthony LaCombe, 73, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully with family by his side on February 4, 2026. David was born on January 18, 1953, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Edmund and Ruth (Gambell) LaCombe.

David earned a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice administration from Mount Mercy College in 1978. He went on to work in corrections, including serving as a probation and parole officer. He later worked as a certified nursing assistant before finishing his career as a special education associate at Ruby Van Meter School in Des Moines, where he supported students with intellectual disabilities until his retirement.

David met the love of his life, Judy Dorr, in Ames, Iowa. They were married on June 27, 1981, and shared 39 years of marriage until her passing in 2020. Together, David and Judy committed their lives to serving others - they adopted eight children, raised one grandson, and cared for many foster children over the years.

Above all, David was a devoted Christian whose faith deeply shaped his life. He continually sought to deepen his faith through frequent Bible studies, theology courses, and attending church multiple times a week. On days he wasn't at church, he often watched gospel programming or enjoyed praise and worship music. He will be remembered for being the most selfless, patient, gentle, and funny husband and father. He led his family by example and lived out his commitment to serving others. When David did find those rare moments for his own interests, he enjoyed coaching his children's and grandson's soccer teams, reading, Toastmasters, playing chess, following the weather and politics, and watching professional wrestling. In true dad fashion, he left this earth doing what he loves - watching WWE with his kids. There will never be another like him, but may we strive each day to be a little more like David.

He is survived by his eight children: Joshua, Mary Katherine, Hannah, William, Benjamin, Kaitlyn, Kiah, and Zachariah "Charlie" Dorrlacombe; his six grandchildren: Josiah, Jobediah, John, James, Jaxson, and Abrie; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judy; his parents; and his siblings Edmund "Buzz" and Frances LaCombe.

A visitation and memorial service will be held on February 25 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the Wesley on Grand auditorium, 3520 Grand Ave, Des Moines. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Wesley on Grand staff, especially the 2nd Floor Health Center team, who loved and cared for David in his final years as if he were their own family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in appreciation of the 2nd Floor Health Center staff at Wesley on Grand.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing" (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

Online condolences are welcome at www.ilescares.com. Arrangements by Iles Dunn's Chapel.