Obituary of David Lee Aldridge

David Lee Aldridge, 81, a lifetime resident of Newton, passed away peacefully Monday afternoon, August 1, 2011, in the Monarch Wing of Skiff Hospice in Skiff Medical Center, Newton. David was born May 19, 1930, to Dave and Grace (Wharff) Aldridge in Newton. He attended Newton Schools, graduating in 1948. His working career started early in his life at age 9, when he become a caddy at the Newton Country Club. His passion for golf started there and never left him, enjoying many rounds with friends and family over the years. David enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1950, serving four years before returning to Newton, and purchasing the downtown ladies apparel store Fashionette. Upon selling the multiple store locations, he sold real estate and later joined the Hawkeye Bank in Newton, retiring in 1993 as Vice President of Marketing. In 1994 he began his three terms as Mayor of Newton, being selected as a member of the Iowa League of Cities - Hall of Fame in 2003. On October 26, 1974, David was united in marriage with Joan Langford. His love of community was more than a thought. He was involved in over 25 different local organizations, serving as chair or president of 15, including the Newton United Way, Newton Rotary, Newton Chamber of Commerce and the Skiff Hospital Board. During his 50 years of involvement he received much recognition for his service but none was more special than being selected as the Grand Marshall for the Newton Sesquicentennial Parade in 2007. He will be missed by his community but remembered for the impact of his endless hours of service. David's faith was paramount in his life. He was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church in Newton and a charter member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church of Newton when it was established in 1957. He was always at the ready to serve his church in any capacity. David is survived by his loving wife of 37 years Joan of Newton; his sons David (DiAnna) of Philipi, West Virginia, Michael Aldridge of Newton; daughter Debra Aldridge of Naples, Florida; step-daughters: Patricia Usborne (Charles) of Ashburn, Virginia; Sandra Sheppard of Augusta, Georgia; sister Clarice Thompson of Newton; brother-in-law Francis Birkenholtz of Newton; his seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and friends. His family will miss his dynamic presence along with his quick wit, his caring compassion and that gleaming smile. Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church or Skiff Hospice.