David Melhus

David H. Melhus passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on Thursday, July 4, 2019, in Des Moines, Iowa.  In his final moments, Dave battled a heart condition to give his family a final gift: an opportunity to say goodbye. 

Dave was born in Clarion, Iowa to Patricia Marie (Peterson) and Lawrence Edward Melhus.  He was close with his two brothers (Jeff and Michael) and two sisters (Andrea and Susan).  Dave graduated from Savanna High School in Savanna, Illinois where he was a multiple-time state champion wrestler.  Dave then graduated from the University of Dubuque where he studied accounting and business administration.

Dave’s true passion in life was his family.  He married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life: Lorie Jo (Holt).  Together, they raised three boys: Matt, Brian, and T.J.  He instilled in them his own strong work ethic and fierce love of family and friends.  He was beloved by his four granddaughters: Avree, Emmersen, Finley, and Penelope who all shared in his infectious humor and quick wit.

Dave was a successful businessman and entrepreneur.  His leadership was formed by experiences at HNI where he served as Vice President / General Manager and Vermeer (a family held agricultural and construction equipment company) where he served as Executive Vice President of Operations.  From there, he founded and served as CEO of a successful consulting firm providing efficiency and leadership advice both nationally and internationally.  He also served as a partner of True North Advisors as a business and management consultant.  As a passion project, he enjoyed owning and operating two Anytime Fitness gyms located in Pella and Knoxville.  He helped his wife pursue her passion – owning a small gift shop in Pella aptly named Silver Lining.

Dave is preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, uncles, an aunt, and brother Jeff of Galesburg, Illinois.  He is survived by his wife, Lorie Jo (Holt) of Pella, Iowa; sons, Matt (Brittany) Melhus of Liberty, Missouri; Brian (Rhea) Melhus of Waukee, Iowa; and T.J. Melhus of Seattle, Washington; and granddaughters, Avree, Emmersen, Finley, and Penelope.  He is also survived by father- and mother-in-law Jerry and Eunice Holt of Pella, Iowa;  sister Andrea Themas (Ron) of Davenport, Iowa; sister Susan Melhus-Lee of Geneseo, Illinois; brother Michael Melhus (Rosemary) of Savanna, Illinois; sister-in-law Cheryl Melhus of Galesburg, Illinois; and many beloved nieces and nephews. 

Dave was a leader, role model, and family man.  He will be missed.

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