David Lee Frantzen

David Frantzen 78, passed away Sunday, July 19, 2026 at Copper Shores Village in Pleasant Hill, IA.

Dave was born September 3, 1947 to Leonard Frantzen and Theresa Frantzen (Miller) in New Hampton, Iowa. The oldest of nine siblings, Dave spent his childhood on the family farm near Alta Vista, Iowa. He was immensely proud of his ‘farm boy’ upbringing in northeast Iowa and the work ethic he developed there carried him throughout his life.

Dave graduated with honors from Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa studying Economics. He was a military veteran having served in the U.S. Army from 1969 to 1972. He started his business career with Northwestern Bell, eventually ATT, and then US West. He managed offices in Mason City and Waterloo before eventually moving to the Des Moines area and managing their statewide fleet of vehicles. He took early retirement from US West and started a second career with Mid-States Ford and eventually Stivers Ford Lincoln that included him being recognized as a national leader in truck sales. Dave’s dedication and commitment to doing the job right was second to none. His career includes time living in Mason City, Waterloo, Altoona, Omaha, and Clive.

Dave was married to Ruth Frantzen (Birkett) for nearly 20 years and they had two sons, Matt and Mike. He was very proud of the men that they became and the families they are raising. His greatest joy was spending time with immediate and extended family. Dave enjoyed fishing, vehicles, and investing and was a voracious reader on those topics. He was a natural leader with an active and curious mind, who was always informed on current events and local news. Dave had a strong love of animals and was an avid supporter of all Iowa sports teams, including both Iowa and Iowa State athletics.

Dave is survived by his children, Matt Frantzen (April) of Des Moines, IA and Mike Frantzen (Traci) of Waukee, IA; grandchildren, Ellie, Zack, Brady, Carter, Vivienne, and Luke; siblings, Sharon Weber (Charlie) of Ames, IA, Diane Wheeler (Tim) of Jacksonville, FL, Judy Frantzen, Firestone, CO, Joe Frantzen (Kim) of Lincoln, NE, Gerry Frantzen of Jacksonville, FL and Ron Frantzen (Laura) of Ames, IA; many nieces and nephews; and a large extended family.

David was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Denny and Kim, and niece, Amy Weber.

The family would like to offer special thanks to all who offered Dave support in his later years from Adel Acres, Copper Shores Village, and Suncrest Hospice. He had fond memories of you all and was truly thankful for your support.

Visitation services will be held from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 31, at St Bernard Catholic Church, 116 E. Washington Street in Alta Vista, Iowa with a visitation one hour prior. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery also in Alta Vista.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family who will donate to causes close to Dave’s heart.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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