David E. McDowell, 75, of Grinnell, died Thursday, October 8, 2026, at University Park Nursing Home, in Des Moines.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 2:00 pm in Hazelwood Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to PALS or Suicide Prevention, Iowa Capter.

David was born on November 3, 1950, the son of Wayne and Florence (Smith) McDowell in Grinnell. He graduated from Grinnell High School in 1968 and continued his education at Elva Mae School of Design to be a florist. He owned and operated Courtyard Floral in Newton and was a florist for over 40 years, retiring in 2017. David loved what he did and was proud of his work. During the Vietnam War, David served his country in the U.S. Navy. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church and a 3rd Degree Knight of Columbus.

He enjoyed crafting, reading, antique restoration and a passion for baking. David was always working on a project. David will be remembered as a kind and gentle person, willing to lend a helping hand.

David will be remembered by his daughter, Laurie Wildhagen of North Hampton, Massachusetts; grandchildren, Hazel, Leo and Felix Wildhagen, James, Jessica, Tony and Alivia Neeley; and his cousins, Debra (Brad) Herrold of Norwalk, Iowa and Robert Cook of Des Moines; as well as his extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Jon Neeley; brother, Terry McDowell; and cousin, Mary Cook.