David Lee Steinbeck, age 74, of Durant, passed away, surrounded by his three special girls, Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Banner Del E Webb Medical Center in Sun City West, Ariz. A visitation will be held from 10–11:45 a.m., Monday, April 20, at Bentley Funeral Home, Durant. A funeral service will be held at noon, Monday, April 20, at the funeral home. Burial will take place in Durant Cemetery. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in his memory. Online condolences may be left at www.bentleyfuneralhome.com.
David was born on Dec. 3, 1951, the son of Charles and Janis (Davisson) Steinbeck in Clinton. He graduated from Central DeWitt High School with the Class of 1971. David proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. During his service, he earned the Expert Weapons Qualification Badge, demonstrating proficiency with both rifles and grenades. He served honorably for three years with the 101st Airborne Division.
David dedicated 24 years to his career as an ironworker, serving as a respected general foreman before retiring in 2000. His commitment to his trade continued well beyond retirement, and in 2016 he was honored as an honorary member of Ironworkers Local 111 in Rock Island—a recognition that reflected the respect and admiration he earned throughout his career. David was proud to be a longtime member of Ironworkers Local 111, where he formed lasting friendships and contributed to a brotherhood he deeply valued. His strong work ethic and leadership left a lasting impression on all who worked alongside him.
A man with a generous spirit, David supported causes close to his heart, including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. He believed in giving back and helping others whenever he could. Outside of work, David enjoyed being outdoors. He loved fishing, tending to his garden, panning for gold, and hunting mushrooms. He also enjoyed life’s simple pleasures—listening to music, playing cards, visiting the casino, and spending time in the kitchen baking and cooking for those he loved. Above all, David cherished his family. They were the center of his world, and his greatest happiness came from the time he spent with them. His love, guidance, and presence will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
David will be dearly missed by his fiancée, Mary Fuller; two daughters, Jessica (Andrew) Jones of Grand Mound, and Jaime (Shawn Gerardy) Steinbeck of Maquoketa; nine grandchildren, Ashlyn Steinbeck, Jaxson Brentise, Colton Lane, Travis Gerardy, Grace Gerardy, Faith Hoover, Logan Jones, Liam Jones and Owen Jones; and one sister.
David was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Janis.
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