David “Dave” R. Milligan, 75, passed away unexpectedly at home on March 24, 2023. A reception to celebrate his life will be held at Des Moines Golf and Country Club on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. A private family burial will take place at Resthaven Cemetery at a later date.
Dave grew up in Arlington Heights, Illinois as the only child of William and Elaine Milligan. He moved to Des Moines in 1966 to attend Drake University where he studied business and was a three year letter-winner in tennis. Dave went on to attend Drake Law School and graduated in 1974.
He met his wife, Debbie, while living in West Des Moines after law school, and the two married in Las Vegas in 1977. They settled in West Des Moines where they found a wonderful community of friends and colleagues and raised two children, Whitney and Marc.
Dave worked at Rex Darrah Law Firm before joining West Bank in 1980, where he spent the remainder of his career. Dave worked in various roles at West Bank including as trust officer, general counsel, executive vice president, and ultimately as CEO and Chairman of the Board. He took great pride in working for West Bank and in all of the partnerships he forged with colleagues and clients. One of Dave's many career highlights included being part of the group from West Bank that rang the Nasdaq closing bell in 2014. He was also active in the community and served on many boards including the Greater Des Moines Committee, Des Moines Golf and Country Club, Drake Board of Governors, and Children and Families of Iowa.
Dave was an avid golfer and spent countless hours on the golf course with his friends. He was a long-time supporter of Drake athletics and loved watching all sports, from the iCubs to his granddaughters' rec level soccer, tennis and basketball games. He enjoyed travel, meeting his friends at the bar, lively debate and spending time with his family.
Dave is survived by his wife of 45 years, Debbie; daughter Dr. Whitney Waite (Michael); son Marc (Nikki); granddaughters Scarlett, Nora and Hazel Waite; grandson Asher David Milligan; and his many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Those wishing to honor him are encouraged to make a donation in his name to a charity of their choice.
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