CLEAR LAKE — David Laurence Lytle, 61, a longtime Clear Lake resident whose life was filled with friendship, sports, laughter and achievements that exceeded expectations, passed away Monday, November 2, 2026.
A private family remembrance will be held to celebrate David’s life. His family will honor him by sharing memories of his sense of humor, loving personality and the many ways he enriched their lives. Memorial contributions may be directed to One Vision, P.O. Box 622, Clear Lake, IA 50428. Cards and expressions of sympathy may be mailed to Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 310 First Avenue North, Clear Lake, IA 50428.
David was born January 5, 1965, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Ralph and Marlene Lytle. He grew up alongside his sister, Lori, and brother, Todd, in a family that embraced time together and encouraged his interests.
Family camping trips, travel, Friday night football games and adventures with his siblings and their friends were among the experiences that helped shape his childhood.
David spent the first 22 years of his life in Des Moines, where he became one of the earliest students to attend Ruby Van Meter School. The school provided an environment where students were encouraged to develop their abilities, learn important life skills and participate in meaningful activities.
David embraced those opportunities with enthusiasm.
He participated in school plays, served as a bell-ringer and used sign language during vocal concerts. He also enjoyed athletics, particularly basketball and swimming.
His accomplishments in the pool were especially memorable. According to his family, David continued to hold Ruby Van Meter School’s breaststroke swimming record.
Following graduation, David moved to Opportunity Village in Clear Lake, beginning a new chapter that would provide opportunities for greater independence, friendships and personal accomplishments.
At Opportunity Village, David continued swimming and traveling with friends while becoming an active member of the community. His involvement and personality eventually led him to serve as Mayor of the Village, a distinction that reflected the role he had built for himself among fellow residents.
One particularly memorable achievement came through his participation in Special Olympics. David was invited to present a football to the officials at an Iowa State University football game, an experience that brought him tremendous pride.
His love for Iowa State athletics remained one of his defining interests throughout his life.
David later achieved another important milestone when he moved into his own apartment in Clear Lake, gaining greater independence.
He worked for many years at Fareway, where he took pride in his responsibilities and developed relationships with coworkers and customers. His family remembered the support and encouragement he received from a manager who recognized his dedication and work ethic.
During his later years, David moved into a group home in Clear Lake. His family expressed appreciation to the staff at One Vision and the hospice professionals who helped make his final years comfortable.
David’s interests were as lively and varied as his personality.
He loved Iowa State athletics, professional wrestling through WWE, spending time at the pool, country music and the movie Grease, particularly its memorable song “Greased Lightnin’.”
His enthusiasm, humor and affectionate nature brought joy to his family and friends, who remember a man who approached life with determination and an unmistakable personality.
David is survived by his parents, Ralph and Marlene Lytle; his sister, Lori Hanson; and his brother, Todd (Monica) Lytle.
He also leaves behind his niece, Molly (Johnny) Hanson; nephews Kyle (Kelsey) Hanson, Clayton (Bella) Lytle and Jack (Meghan) Lytle; his aunt, Pam Burmeister; and numerous cousins and friends.
Those closest to David remember his ability to bring people together through laughter, friendship and shared experiences. His journey from the classrooms of Ruby Van Meter School to his independent life in Clear Lake reflected years of personal growth and achievement.
His family takes pride in the meaningful life David built, the expectations he surpassed and the lasting impact he made on the people who knew him.
Friends, former coworkers and community members have shared affectionate memories of David, including his years at Fareway and his enthusiasm for the Iowa State Cyclones.
Additional information and opportunities to share condolences and memories are available through David Laurence Lytle’s obituary at Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel.
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