David William Buwalda

David William Buwalda

Cedar Rapids

David William Buwalda, 73, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away surrounded by family on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at Mercy Medical Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 8, 2023, 1 to 2 p.m. at the Cedar Memorial Park Chapel of Memories. A funeral service will immediately follow at 2 p.m. Private inurnment at the Cedar Memorial Park Mausoleum.

David was born in Ottumwa, Iowa, on April 15, 1949. He lived in Marion and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, most of his life. He attended Washington High school and graduated from Marion H.S. in 1967. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served from 1968 to 1971. His service as a ground control radar tech included a tour in Vietnam with the 1st Air Cavalry Division, where he was awarded many medals, including a bronze star for meritorious achievement in ground operations against hostile forces.

On May 10, 1969, he married Linda Hupton of East Moline, Ill. They made their home in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Dave was employed at Sears-Roebuck company, Link Belt/FMC and Penford over the years.

Dave was happiest when fishing and in nature. He enjoyed pheasant hunting, bird watching, answering all the Jeopardy questions, and always finishing the crossword puzzle.

He is survived by his loyal wife of 53 years, Linda; his favorite daughter, Laura (Alan) Olson of New London, Minn.; his favorite son, Doug Buwalda of Fairfax, Minn.; his brother, Alan (Karen) Buwalda of Harvest, Ala.; four grandchildren, Adam, Sara, Alex and Shayne; three great-grandchildren, Logann, Kelce and Hunter; along with several nephews, nieces, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his amazing parents, Harold and Dorothy (Cravens) Buwalda of Marion, Iowa; and a brother, Harold “Roy” Buwalda.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the family to be directed to one of Dave’s favorite places, Kent Park.

Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.cedarmemorial.com under Obituaries.