David M. Trinkle

David M. Trinkle, age 81, of Conrad, Iowa, passed away on Monday, December 22, 2025, at the Iowa River Hospice House, with his daughter there and held in the love of his family and close friends.

A Celebration of Life has been scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2026, beginning at 2:30 p.m. at the Mitchell Family Funeral Home in Marshalltown, IA. Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation one hour prior to the service. Memorials may be directed to the family for a later designation. To leave online condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call

David Merle Trinkle was born on August 1, 1944, in Carroll, Iowa, the son of Merle and Dorothy (Herman) Trinkle, and graduated from Scranton High School in 1962. He attended school in Glidden through 10th grade and enjoyed many reunions with his Glidden classmates.

On April 3, 1982, he was united in marriage to Kathy (Gethmann) Trinkle at Peace United Church of Christ in Gladbrook, IA. Dave was a devoted and supportive husband. Together, they enjoyed country music dances, Gaither concerts, camping, and countless trips. Dave was a member of the Ivester Church of the Brethren in Grundy Center and was involved with the Lions Club.

Dave worked for Green Products Company for most of his life and was known for his dedication and strong work ethic. After retiring in 2015, he continued for another decade, putting his love of gardening to work by tending a large company garden that provided fresh produce for employees. His talents showed early, as evidenced by a 1958 front page article in his hometown newspaper featuring two huge potatoes he had grown, weighing a total of 4 pounds and one measuring 17.5 inches in circumference.

Dave deeply loved his children, and that love was fully returned. His early sacrifices for their well being showed the depth of his devotion, which carried forward as his family grew through the years. He cherished any time spent with family and friends and brought so much fun and laughter to others’ lives. Christmas was an especially joyous time of year, and though he could brighten any day, his heightened holiday spirit was unforgettable.

Dave will be remembered for his sense of humor and impeccable witty timing. He was a really great guy with a friendly, kind, and generous spirit. It was his wish to be remembered with love, laughter, and to smile whenever he comes to mind. He blessed his family and friends with countless memories that will keep us smiling for all the years ahead.

He will be greatly missed by his wife; his four children: Patricia Tupper of Sac City, Myra (Dan) Sicard of Grinnell, Richard (Kelly) Trinkle of Union, and Andy (Mary) Trinkle of Carmel, IN; his grandchildren, grouped by parent: Jerry, David (Heather), Kevin (Jenna), and Paul; Travis, Justin, and Cody; Morgan (Enzo), Shelby (Derek), Madison (Gavin), and Mackenzie; Leo (Ashley) and Megan (Spencer); 21 great grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren; his sister, Mary Kent of Glidden, Iowa; numerous nieces and nephews; and some very special and beloved friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Paul Trinkle; his sister, Margie Krough; his son in law, Gerald “Jerry” Tupper Jr.; and his infant grandson, Danny Tupper.

He will be missed beyond measure, yet his love remains forever.