Carl Alan Sells

Carl Alan Sells, a proud United States Marine Corps veteran, devoted husband, and follower of Jesus Christ, passed away unexpectedly on July 31, 2026, following a sudden illness. He was born on Father's Day, June 15, 1958, in Des Moines, Iowa.

Born to Kenneth M. Sells and Rose B. (Perkovich) Sells, Carl was the eldest son of the family. In 1971, they moved to Altoona, where he attended Southeast Polk Schools and graduated with the Class of 1977.

At the age of 18, Carl answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Marine Corps on October 31, 1977. During twelve years of honorable service, he attained the rank of Staff Sergeant before concluding his active-duty career in June 1989.

Carl completed recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, followed by Infantry Training School and Sea Service School. His first assignment took him aboard the USS Long Beach (CGN-9), where he served throughout the Far East. Later assignments included the 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Okinawa, Japan, and the Marine Corps Reserve in Omaha, Nebraska.

Throughout his military career, Carl earned numerous commendations, including the Humanitarian Service Medal, the Battle Efficiency Ribbon with two "E" designations, the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, and three Good Conduct Medals. More important than the medals themselves were the way he sought to live the Marine Corps values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment—principles that continued to guide him throughout his life.
Following his military service, Carl built a successful career in the construction industry. He worked for Bell Brothers Heating, Carrier Corporation, and several remodeling contractors before establishing his own handyman business. In September 2008, he founded Benchmark Construction, earning a reputation for quality craftsmanship, integrity, and treating every customer with honesty and respect.

In 2023, Carl found the love of his life in Kathy Lynn. They were married in the Historic Palmyra Church in Carlisle, Iowa, and together built a life centered on faith, gratitude, service, and love.

Following his retirement in 2025, Carl founded Leadership for the Trades, where he served as a coach and mentor, utilizing his Maxwell Leadership certification to equip others with timeless principles of leadership, character, and personal growth. He believed leadership was not about position or title, but about serving others with integrity, humility, and purpose.

Whether building homes, mentoring young tradesmen, encouraging fellow veterans, or simply lending a helping hand, Carl quietly invested in people. He believed every person deserved respect, every job deserved excellence, and every day was another opportunity to make a difference. His greatest satisfaction came from helping others grow in confidence, leadership, and faith.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth M. Sells (2010) and Rose B. Perkovich (2017).

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy Lynn Sells, of Truro, Iowa; his son, Arthur K. Sells, of Waukee, Iowa; and dear friends, fellow Marines, and countless individuals whose lives were enriched by his encouragement, leadership, and example.

Having faithfully completed his earthly journey, Carl has been welcomed home by his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, to hear the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Family will greet friends on Friday, August 7, 2026, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave., Des Moines, Iowa. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., at the funeral home.

Carl will be laid to rest with Military Honors at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery, 1 NE 60th Ave., Des Moines, Iowa.

A memorial fund has been established for the Sells Family. Contributions can be made to the Carl Sells Memorial at Collins Community Credit Union Mills Civic, 6260 Mills Civic Pkwy, West Des Moines, IA 50266.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

Print