In loving memory of

David Temple
November 15, 1944 - July 14, 2019

David Eugene Temple, 74, of Ames, completed his journey to be with the Lord on Sunday, July 14, 2019, in the tender care of the Israel Family Hospice House. Dave was born on November 15, 1944 to John and Ruby (Anfinson) Temple. After his childhood in Gilbert, Dave attended Iowa State University where he played baseball and graduated with a bachelor's degree in physical education in 1968. He served our country in the army during the Vietnam War, stationed in Germany. Dave took great pride in refereeing for football and basketball games around the state. Dave was at home on almost any fast-pitch softball field in the Midwest. He was a pitcher, catcher and player-coach on numerous teams for several decades. His daughters-in-law were continually amazed at his ability to recollect every detail of every game - from the temperature at the first pitch to the quality of the hot dogs at the concession stand to the pitch count at every batter on the roster. Dave's genuineness and compassion will be remembered by all his clients at Alliance General Insurance. His rolodex overflowed with clients who became friends. His devout faith was admired by many. He served his community doing jail ministry at the Story County Jail. Dave enjoyed spending time with his family. He received great joy from watching his granddaughter on a dance competition stage and leading the cheer squad. He beamed with pride admiring his grandson play in the orchestra. He loved cheering on his grandsons on the baseball diamond and basketball court. But simple things like enjoying an ice cream cone with any of them brought the best smiles to his face. Dave enjoyed traveling with his wife Cheri and no matter where they went, Dave was sure to encounter someone on his very long list of lifelong friends whom he could easily pick up a conversation as if no time had passed since he last saw them.
Dave married Cheryl Briley on April 23, 1983. Together they raised two sons, Scott and Nathan. Dave is survived by his wife, Cheri; his sons, Scott (Bobbi Jo) and Nathan (Andrea); four grandchildren, Malorie, Ian, Kyle and Sawyer; one sister, Linda Sills of Des Moines; and two brothers Jerry Temple of Summerville, SC, and Roger (Joanne) Temple of Boone. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Nancy Temple and Sandra Harriman; and one brother, Mike Temple.
Dave's family will greet visitors at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, 2900 Hoover Ave, Ames, on Thursday evening, July 18 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm with a vigil service beginning at 6:00pm. Mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, July 19 at 10:30am at St. Cecilia Catholic Church. A private burial for family will be held at a later date at the Ames Municipal Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences are welcome at www.grandonfuneralandcremationcare.com.

Tributes

John S Mattis wrote on Sep 28, 2019:

"I was thinking of Dave and put his name in google. I am saddened with his passing. We were stationed together at Hindenberg Kaserne in Ansbach Germany. We had different jobs but spent a lot of off duty time together. Lots of trips down town and day trips by train to towns in the area. We would enjoy the atmosphere and sample the beer. We shared the same birth date and year. We corresponded for awhile in the early 1970's but somehow lost touch. That was a pleasant time I will always remember. My name is John S Mattis and I live in Marquette, Mi."

Marie Mayer wrote on Jul 21, 2019:

"When I thought of when I first met Dave, I realized it was about 38 years ago. Our paths crossed in many ways via a friend, a friend of a friend, softball games, a favorite watering hole. I became a client of his back then and have been since, but I don't think anyone ever became just a "client". Over time, he became a friend. What might have been a short business conversation was always a catch-up on what was going on in our worlds. In time, I also got to know Cheri and have fond memories of conversations with her on mutual joys and challenges we had. As a business person, he was exemplary in customer service. As a friend, he was always upbeat and cheering for you. I feel so blessed to have had an opportunity to know this rare person who made a difference just by being himself. Rest in peace, Dave."

R.J. and Lois Vidimos wrote on Jul 21, 2019:

"I never saw Dave in a bad mood, nor did I ever hear him say a bad word about anyone. I loved stopping into his office to chew the fat. I was always met with a huge smile and hug. Dave's strong faith was encouraging. Even near the end, I am convinced Dave knew the end was near. He marched forward with grace and dignity, all while continuing to have a positive attitude. I will miss our talks and Dave's bad jokes. God bless you, Dave. May God open His loving arms and welcome you home and may the Holy Spirit come down upon Cheri and her family, giving you comfort and peace."

Deb Yokiel wrote on Jul 19, 2019:

"Dave was a great friend and agent. Someone who always had time to visit and share stories about our families, memories and life in general. Anyone who was fortunate to know Dave, knows there aren't enough words to describe the person we all know! God's love and comfort to all of Dave's family and friends as we reminisce about the wonderful memories we hold in our hearts! Love from Steve and Deb Yokiel"

Bob Fontana wrote on Jul 18, 2019:

"Everyone that has spoke about Dave have used words that describe a person who was as genuine as they come. Dave never met a stranger , and he was always easy to converse with. I will always remember Dave extending an invitation to play with his Ames club in the 1988 ISC World tourney. I always played against his teams, but he treated me like I had been with his team forever. As a coach today, I always remind my players they will be a man a lot longer than an athlete , and I want them to be productive citizens. That describes Dave Temple. I will miss seeing that big smile and firm handshake. My heartfelt sympathies go out to Dave's family. R.I.P. DAVE "

Becki Christensen wrote on Jul 17, 2019:

"I'm very sorry to hear of Dave's passing. I only recently became one of his insurance clients, but I was touched by his kindness and genuine concern for me. My condolences to his family. "

Bill Jepsen wrote on Jul 17, 2019:

"Very saddened at the passing of Dave. Our friendship goes way back to the early 70's. Upon meeting, through softball, we became good friends holding many mutual interests punctuated by our affection for 50's and 60's music. I became a client of his and he became a customer of mine. However, it was our friendship that created our bond. I used to just pop in to his agency just to say hi and catch up with he and Cheri. I regret not doing that for a few years. Nothing but fond memories for one of the nicest guys I have ever had the privilege to call a friend. RIP Thoughts to you 'West Boone Girl'."

Lynn Koch wrote on Jul 17, 2019:

"Such a genuinely kind and good man. I am so sorry for the loss to his wife and family. May all of God's love be felt today and always. "

charles thompson wrote on Jul 17, 2019:

"I was in the Claims business for over 31 years and I Worked with many Insurance Agents and found very few that stood up to Dave's standards.Not only was Dave our Insurance Agent he was a good friend.I will miss stopping by Dave"s office to reminisce about serving in the Military during the Vietnam War,discussions on Sports, our Health , Religion and then some.I will miss Dave ,but I will never forget him.Your Forever Friend Chuck Thompson"

Larry L McHone wrote on Jul 17, 2019:

"One of the best friends a person could have. We go back to the 60/70s when we would referee together. We (Wayne Clinton, Dave and I ) were then a 3 man football crew. Boys did we turn some heads when we would show up for games. Small town Iowa did not know what to expect. Also did many basketball games with Dave. I was always just MAC to him and that too I will miss. Yes a true friend may not be here with us, but the Lord has gained ONE SUPER INDIVIDUAL."

Leroy Wegmann wrote on Jul 17, 2019:

"On behalf of the Iowa Men's Fastpitch Softball Hall Of Fame we offer our deepest sympathies. Not only did Dave know the game but he knew the players that made the game as great and as competitive as it was during his playing career. Dave was one of those players. Because of Dave and his organization of his teams, the local softball community was strengthened with great competition to allow the Iowa teams to play against teams that were very strong that came to Iowa from all over the Midwest USA. Those teams that travelled here knew that any team they drew in a tournament played here in Iowa could draw a team like Dave Temple's team and you better bring your "A" game and be ready for a battle. Dave's input, knowledge and most of all his friendly competitive dialog will be missed at our HOF events immensely. What the HOF members will remember most about Dave is all of the opportunities he gave to young players to give them a chance to experience this great game. I remember clearly, too many times to count seeing Dave with his hand on a young players shoulder teaching him the game from his experiences. We recognize Dave as one of the greatest pitching catchers of all time from Iowa. The team Dave plays for now must have needed either a great pitcher or catcher and maybe where he plays that game now he just might be able to do both at the same time. Leroy Wegmann President Iowa Men's Fastpitch Softball Hall Of Fame"

Travis Temple wrote on Jul 17, 2019:

"Two memories growing up as a kid stand out the most. David had a great handshake that was strong and confident that made you feel important when he greeted you. Also he did the ever changing what's on your shirt nose brush that even as I got older I fell for everytime cause he waited for that right moment to surprise me. I love you David and the family already there will greet you with that eternal light that makes life and its memories so important. Cheri this time may be awful but with family and friends with you and those memories shared will be a great send off to a wonderful man. Love all of you and may these days be eased by Gods love "

Nancy and Gary Farmer wrote on Jul 16, 2019:

"We are so sorry to hear about Dave. He was a great person and always brought a smile to my face talking with him. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Nancy and Gary Farmer"

Tom Fowler wrote on Jul 16, 2019:

"I haven't known Dave as long as many people. I met Dave and Cheri at the Ames American legion and we always had to try to top the other with the latest dumb/lame joke we had heard. I always looked forward to seeing him so I could tell him mine and watch what ever sporting event was in TV. I was lucky enough to see him a little over a week ago. I will miss him and his personality. My condolences go out to the family . Dave will truly be missed."

ED Conley wrote on Jul 16, 2019:

"Such sad news. Close to 60 years of memories about Dave. A basketball rebounding force, the "bathtub" Mercury, fastpitch softball and more. Still called me Eddie-I'll miss that. And him. Thoughts are with the family. Ed Conley"

Larry Reinsch wrote on Jul 15, 2019:

"Hell of a catcher... Watched him play baseball... He's playing for a new team now ?"

Cheryl Byrne wrote on Jul 15, 2019:

"My first Meeting of Dave was when he was first starting out selling insurance My grandfather Joe Thompson gave him my name and so i bought life insurance from him I?ve been with him for the last 45 years I?m sorry that I didn?t know that he had been sick because whenever I would call him about something he would say well now Cheryl this is why we?re doing what we?re doing LOL he was a generous and very nice man my prayers are with Cheri and the family"

Lea Henderson wrote on Jul 15, 2019:

"I first met Dave some 35+ years ago when I went to work in a regional office of an insurance company for which Dave was an agent. I so respected his professional, kind and gentle manner of handling his clients. Fast forward 25 years when my husband and I were looking to change insurance companies and we called on Dave. It had been 25 years since we had seen or talked to each other and it was like we had never missed a beat, treated me like an old friend and handled our insurance needs just like we were his only clients! Dave will be truly missed by family, friends and clients. My thoughts and prayers to his family."

Bud Legg wrote on Jul 15, 2019:

"Dave was a gentle soul who always had time to share a story or greeting. In short he was an absolute delight to be near whether on the athletic field, at church or a casual meeting. My prayers to his family as they move through the healing process."

Gordon and Carol Walker wrote on Jul 15, 2019:

"Dave is one of those people that I consider a great blessing to have known. His strong faith, caring manor, and good nature made him a joy to know. May God bless his soul and give his wonderful wife Cheri and their family peace and comfort until they are together again in paradise."

Jeff Eastvold wrote on Jul 15, 2019:

"I love this picture of you. Cheri picked a good one. I can close my eyes and see you and it is always with that smile. It is going to be hard for us but I will see you soon. "

Kerin Overturf wrote on Jul 15, 2019:

"What a kind, loving person. He never knew a stranger and made everyone feel special. I'm so blessed to have known him. Sending you lots of love and hugs, Cheri. "

Larry Conley wrote on Jul 15, 2019:

"Dave was a great person you sometimes meet in your life. I will miss the bear hug and the positivity that gushed from this man. Sincere condolences to the family ?? Larry Conley "

Jon Emery wrote on Jul 15, 2019:

"I have known Dave for more years than I can remember. He was one of the nicest people I know. He has been my agent for many years and was the best. He will be missed. "

Teresa Ronk wrote on Jul 15, 2019:

"The nicest, most sincere person we have ever had the pleasure of knowing. He will be missed. Teresa and Lee Ronk"

Jan Rardin wrote on Jul 15, 2019:

"Thank you Dave for helping Cheryl believe in love, reasons to laugh and being such a positive role model for Scott, Nate and the grandchildren. You will be missed."

Marianne Chalstrom wrote on Jul 15, 2019:

"Dave was such a caring person. Always gave me a hug when I stopped in the office. He was so kind when my husband died. He had been our insurance agent for many, many years. We loved to watch him play ball and followed the team even out of town. He will be greatly missed by many. Marianne Chalstrom and family"

Steve Rickerl wrote on Jul 15, 2019:

"Though I had not seen Dave since high school, I remember his kindness to us ?young guys? on the Gilbert baseball team. Great competitor, but always there with that ready smile and encouraging words. My condolences to his family. Steve Rickerl(?67)"

Chip Elefdon wrote on Jul 15, 2019:

"Dave was a great friend and family man. I will miss the hours we spent talking about whatever was going on in the day. He will be missed by many. This is certainly a sad day for all who knew him"