John "Dave" Isbell

1952 - 2023

John David Isbell of Vinton, Iowa, passed away on March 1, 2023, in Des Moines, Iowa, after a remarkable battle with cancer. Dave was born on May 2, 1952, to Marion and Charles Marion Isbell in Vinton, Iowa. Dave spent his childhood playing with his large family, working hard on his paper route, helping out with the family dry cleaning business and enjoying adventures on the Cedar River hunting, fishing and camping. Dave spent much of his adult life living in the Modale, Iowa, area working for the Chicago and North Western Railroad. He continued working in the construction industry for many years where he was a natural leader and guided many young workers as they learned the trade. Throughout his life, Dave took pride working with his hands. He created art, furniture, cabinetry and even built his own log cabin from scratch. He spent many years living in the mountains of Montana enjoying the peace of nature, focusing on outdoor hobbies and hosting friends and family. Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Marion and Charles Marion Isbell; brothers, Mike, Jim and Steve Isbell; and wife, Sheila Isbell. Those left to remember Dave are brothers, Dan (Kim), Matt and Bob (Caroline) Isbell; sister, Becky (David) Holst; son, Justin (Tobi) Isbell; AND many nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends, all of whom meant the world to him. A celebration of Dave's life will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sunday, May 21, at the Carl Fritz Henning Shelter at Ledges State Park.