David Wayne Rose

David Wayne Rose, age 88, of Donahue, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on August 2, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on January 3, 1937, in Davenport, Iowa, to David Burson “D.B.” Rose and Marion (Teft) Rose, and was raised in the Village of East Davenport. He attended both Davenport High School and Bettendorf High School.

David was the proud owner of Roofing Wholesale Supply in Davenport, Iowa, which he ran with dedication and integrity for nearly 50 years. A true entrepreneur at heart, David was always chasing new opportunities and building from the ground up. He founded Rose Roofing and Window, developed Rose Hill Villas, and created Shademaster Nursery — just a few of his many ventures that showcased his vision and tireless work ethic.

He married the love of his life, Shirley Jean Rose, on January 24, 1976, and this coming January would have marked their 50th wedding anniversary — a milestone they were both so proud to reach. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in family, faith, laughter, and resilience.

He is survived by his beloved wife Shirley; his children Michelle Goode (Chris), Kelly Hartman, Christina Rose Miller (Chad), and Victor J. Rose (Alexandria); and his grandchildren: Jack David Miller, Erik David Alan Rose, ShirleyAnne Rose Miller, Melissa Raap, Mandy Goode, Ashley Annis, and Kara Jo Forrest; along with two great-grandchildren Miles and Levi. He is also survived by his siblings: Donald Rose (Sharon), Patrick Rose (Elizabeth), Lawrence Rose (Carol), and Joyce Pickering (Fred).

He was preceded in death by his sister Patricia Willich (Ed), his brothers Michael Rose and Richard Rose, and his parents.

Known to many as “Big Dave,” David was a brilliant storyteller — witty, charming, and genuinely funny. His presence filled every room he entered. He had a deep love for the outdoors and could often be found hunting, fishing, or heading “up north” to the lakes with his family. He was also a passionate private pilot for nearly 50 years — a point of great pride — having flown across the country and even into the Bahamas.

Ever the adventurer, David took sailing lessons in the British Virgin Islands and later captained a 38-foot sailboat, The Silk Road, around the islands with his family aboard — a cherished memory none of them will forget. He was also a stock car driver of Legend cars and had a deep love for the rich, wild history of the American West.

David was an avid classic car collector, especially throughout the 1990s. He had a particular love for 1950s and ’60s Pontiacs and Chevys — sometimes buying them in ready-to-drive condition, and other times restoring them to look like new. His cars were a reflection of his style: bold, timeless, and a little bit fast.

David was also an avid golfer, hitting the course nearly every Saturday for over 30 years with a close group of friends — including longtime golf pro Jim Hasely — at Emeis Golf Course in Davenport. He played as long as his health allowed, and it’s entirely possible that somewhere above the course still hangs a string of well-placed profanity… or even a golf club in a tree. He loved the game, the friendships, and the tradition.

In the last five years of his life, Dave poured his heart into one final passion project — Maple Grove Estates, a new housing development in Donahue, Iowa. His vision was to help the town and community he loved so dearly continue to grow. He worked tirelessly to bring it to life and was incredibly proud to see it near completion. Though he won’t see the homes rise, his fingerprints are all over that land — and his dream for it lives on.

Above all else, David lived for his family. If he wasn’t out mowing the grass, he was spending time with his kids, grandkids, or beloved dogs. His love for his family — including his grand-dogs — was endless and unwavering. He was deeply loved, and will be missed and cherished beyond measure.

David’s passing was unexpected and has left his family devastated. But he lived a long, brilliant, and loving life — one that will be remembered and cherished always.

There are too many hilarious stories to count — and rest assured, they’ll be told for years to come. Whether it was his “Fast and Furious” driving style, his unwavering ability to get exactly what he wanted (usually with a good dose of lovable stubbornness), or his one-liners and unforgettable charm, Big Dave made sure no one ever left without a laugh. His legacy is as loud and colorful as his personality — and that’s exactly how he would’ve wanted it.

Visitation will be held at Runge Funeral Home on Friday, August 8, 2025 from 4 pm until 7 pm.

Funeral services and luncheon will follow on Saturday, August 9 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Ann’s Church in Long Grove, Iowa.

Memorials may be made to Faith Lutheran Church in Eldridge, where David was a member, or to the Dubuque Regional Humane Society, where he and Shirley adopted three of their beloved dogs.