

David Charles "Doc" Ohmstede, a dedicated professional in television broadcasting and a cherished family man, passed away on July 22, 2026, in Newton, Iowa. Born on December 13, 1952, in Red Cloud, Nebraska, David lived a life marked by hard work, passion for his craft, and love for his family.
David's early years were spent in Nebraska, where he attended Guide Rock School District through eighth grade before graduating from Superior High School in 1972. He pursued higher education at Central Nebraska Community College from 1972 to 1974, earning a degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering. His career began during college with part-time work at KHAS TV 5 in Hastings, Nebraska. This initial experience sparked a lifelong dedication to the field of television broadcasting.
Over the course of his remarkable 48-year career, David contributed significantly to the industry. He worked at KCRG TV9 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa; then returned to Guide Rock, Nebraska to farm near his parents owning a swine operation in 1983 to 1986, returned broadcasting at KPTM Channel 42 in Omaha, Nebraska; and Pratt Audio & Video while also managing his own business, Doc's Repair Bench. In 1998, he embarked on an ambitious project with KFPX Channel 39, building it from the ground up and dedicating himself to its success until his retirement in 2022. David's expertise and commitment earned him recognition as a Professional Broadcast Engineer Certification No 50681 of the Society of Broadcast Engineers.
Beyond his professional achievements, David was deeply involved in his community and personal interests. He was a member of SBE Chapter 109-Des Moines, Iowa He was a proud member of the Nebraska Master Mason Hastings Lodge #50 and an active participant in the Corvette Club of Iowa, along with having the joy of a Autocycle / Pulse #152 /350 made. His hobbies reflected his vibrant personality—he enjoyed auto crossing and exploring advancements in cars and electronics. Gardening was another passion of his; each year he took pride in cultivating a vegetable garden. Above all else, David cherished time spent with his family and friends as well as his beloved four-legged companions, Cocoa and Hank.
David is survived by his devoted wife, of 43 years, Janelle (Wiebold) Ohmstede; sons Darren and Dustin (Lyndsey); two grandchildren, Bryce and Brylee; brothers James (Dee) and Kenneth (Stephanie); sister-in-law Patti; and many nieces and nephews, along with cousins. He was predeceased by his parents Bryce and Frances Ohmstede; mother-in law Janice (Ron) Edwards and father-in-law Roy Wiebold; as well as several aunts and uncles.
David’s legacy is one of dedication—to his work, to those he loved, and to the passions that brought him joy. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him. A Visitation will be held on September 8, 2026, from 05:00 PM to 07:00 PM at Ankeny Funeral Home 1510 West First Street. The family will greet Friends and Family in Ankeny with burial later date in Lincoln Memorial Cemetery in Lincoln, Nebraska.
In lieu of Flowers, please send donations for Scholarships” Making You Gift” to the Des Moines Area Community College Foundation 2006 S Ankeny Blvd Bldg. 22, Ankeny IA 50023 or calling 515-964-6229
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