David Leigh Buchanan

David was born April 10, 1957, to Chester Robert Buchanan Jr. and Nadine Jean (Delano) Buchanan. He grew up in Urbandale and graduated from Urbandale High School in 1975. He continued his education at Iowa State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering in 1979. He went on to earn his master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from Georgia Tech and later earned his Doctorate of Science degree from Washington University in St. Louis. A lifelong learner, David also took a sabbatical to return to Washington University and earn a Master of Science degree in Computer Science.

David worked as an aerospace engineer in St. Louis for McDonnell Douglas, later Boeing, dedicating his career to the company until his retirement. After retiring, he returned to West Des Moines to be closer to his family.

Known to his family as “Big Dave,” a name that began as a way to distinguish him from his nephew David and stayed as a term of affection, David was a devoted son, brother, uncle, and great-uncle who took a genuine interest in the lives of his nieces and nephews. For the kids, summer visits to his home in St. Louis were always special, full of time in David’s world, from the pool table and computer games to fun in the big backyard and trips to Union Station. His parents also made their own visits to St. Louis, where David and his father enjoyed playing pool and watching Cardinals baseball games.

David’s interest in his nieces and nephews was not limited by distance. When Alysa was just a toddler, he traveled to the East Coast to visit her and her family, and over the years he was a familiar presence at recitals, graduations, weddings, and other family milestones. He showed his love in the quiet, steady way that was so true to him.

David had an engineer’s mind and enjoyed seeing that same curiosity in the next generation. One favorite family memory was watching him sit with his father and nephews, comparing the new calculators the boys had received for Christmas. Years later, both Dennis and Brian would become engineers themselves, a connection David treasured.

Music was also an important part of David’s life. He played the trumpet, baritone, and accordion, and especially loved that his nephew Craig shared his interest in the baritone.

David was quiet by nature; with a sly sense of humor and a laugh his family will never forget. When something truly amused him, his laugh was more felt than heard. His eyes would close, his shoulders would shake, and everyone around him knew he was delighted.

David is survived by his siblings: sisters, Nancy (Gary) Griffin and Sandra (Kevin) Nelson; brother, Robert Paul (Cheryl) Buchanan; nieces and nephews, Dennis (Erin) Griffin, Brian (Kayla) Griffin, David Griffin, Kimberly Nelson, Craig (Pam) Nelson and Alysa (Nick) Cosby; great-nieces, Addisyn Griffin, Gemma Nelson, and Gwenyth Griffin; along with extended family and friends.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Chester Robert Buchanan Jr. and Nadine Jean Buchanan.

David’s Memorial Service will be held at McLaren's Resthaven Chapel, 801 19th Street, West Des Moines, IA, on July 10, 2026, from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm.