03/11/2026
David Allen Jahnel, 78, was born on November 13, 1947, in Osage, Iowa, to Jim and June Jahnel. David grew up on a farm outside of New Haven, where he learned the value of hard work and developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He was a graduate of Osage High School and a proud member of the 1965 state championship wrestling team. His love for nature began early, as he spent his youth camping, hunting, and fishing.
Throughout his adulthood, David was known for his dedication, craftsmanship, and unwavering work ethic. David served his country with pride in the National Guard. He spent 40 years as a proud union ironworker with Local 89, and he carried that same skill and precision into his woodworking. His workshop was his Utopia — the place where he poured his heart into creating beautiful, handcrafted pieces for the people he loved.
Outside of work, he found peace in nature. He spent countless hours in the timber gathering wood for projects or building a big fire, and he took great joy in caring for the wildlife around his home — especially the birds, turkey, and deer — by providing food and water for them throughout the seasons.
David is survived by his wife of 30 years, Kay Jahnel; his children Chad Jahnel of Iowa City, IA, Michelle (Rob) Kitterman of Johnston, IA, and Kyle (Kelci) Jahnel of Rowley, IA; and his step‑children Keely Davenport of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Allison (Pete) Hadjis of Davenport, IA.
He cherished his grandchildren: Alex and Quin Kitterman; Maci, Josie, and Kal Jahnel; Bentley, Keanna, and Jon Davenport; Kash and Kane Osby; and Aletheia and Adaira Hadjis. He was also blessed with great‑grandchildren Marcel Phillips and Ronin Davenport.
David is also survived by his siblings Bill (Gloria), Barb (Larry) Berg, Dennis (Pam), Carolyn (Kelvin) Palsic, and Kevin. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Mark.
He often shared the motto, “When the gettin’ is good, get it,” a saying he used to motivate and inspire those he cared for.