David Cravens

David Cravens age 50 of Denver, IA, died Friday, November 3, 2023, at his home. A memorial service will be held 1:00 p.m. Friday, November 17, 2023, at Hugeback - Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton with Pastor Paul Pickar officiating. Friends may greet the family 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Friday, November 17, 2023 prior to the service at the funeral home. Hugeback - Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton have been entrusted with David's arrangements. David Wayne Cravens, a man known for his spirited nature, loving heart, and selfless acts of kindness. Born on January 22, 1973, in Story City, Iowa, to James and Sherri (Forsberg) Cravens. David was a beacon of joy and laughter who touched the lives of many. David attended Central Webster Dayton for high school and furthered his education at Iowa Central, where he studied Law Enforcement. He served in the Army from 1991 to 1996 and later joined the National Guard from 1996 to 2002. His commitment to service extended into his professional life, where he worked as a Dietary Aide at Dayton Care Center and later served at the Fort Dodge Correctional Facility from 1999 to 2023. He also worked for the Blackhawk County Sheriff's Office, all roles that allowed him to utilize his skills and passions to serve his community. Outside of his professional commitments, David had a zest for life that was contagious. He found joy in cooking and baking, with a playful reputation for adding something spicy to meals, leading to a ban from bringing dishes to work potlucks due to his hot pepper pranks. His love for fixing up old cars and home improvement was evident, and he was always ready to lend a hand to those in need. His love for the mountains of Tennessee was only matched by his love for the Hawkeyes and the Cowboys. David's favorite holiday was Christmas, and he always aimed to outdo his neighbors with his festive light displays. David cherished his family deeply. He was married to Janelle Maree Bretthauer on May 10, 1997, whom he met through a friend. Together they welcomed two children, Natalie Hope in 1998, and Ryan James in 2003, both born in Fort Dodge. After Janelle's passing, David found love again with Angela Therese Olsen, whom he met online and married on October 22, 2022. In 2021, David became a proud grandfather to Finnlee, a role that brought him immense joy. David's love for adventure was evident in his military service when he was stationed in Germany, where he discovered his love for the country and even took up bull riding. His love for fireworks was well-known, and any day could become the 4th of July when David was around. He fondly remembered spending his summers in Missouri fishing with his grandpa Floyd and enjoying catfish meals. David was also a skilled pool and dart player and was known as a prankster who kept everyone on their toes. Despite his playful nature, David was a caring and dedicated individual who took great pride in taking care of those he loved. David Wayne Cravens will be remembered for his infectious laughter, his unwavering dedication to his family and community, and his spirited love for life. David is survived by wife Angela Cravens of Denver, Ia; Daughter Natalie (John) Cravens of Iowa City; Son Ryan Cravens of Fort Dodge; Mother Sherri (Primo) Forsberg of Knoxville, Ia; Bonus daughter Kaley Loger of Pensacola, Fl; Bonus son Colten (Rachel) Hanson of West Union; Bonus daughter McKenzie Hanson of Alta Vista; best buddy and grandson Finnlee Olsen of Alta Vista; sister Barbara (Gary) Zeitler; niece Shelby Cravens of Knoxville, Ia; and numerous Aunts, Uncles, and friends. He was preceded in death by his father James Cravens, wife Janelle Cravens, stepbrother Billy Abundis, maternal grandparents and paternal grandparents. 641-394-4334