Frank D. Calhoon

Frank Duane Calhoon, 88, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on April 10, 2026, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center. He was born on October 19, 1937, in Exira, Iowa.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Merle Hay Funeral Home Chapel, 4400 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa.

Frank's life was marked by a defining moment of remarkable courage and determination. In 1965, while working on a roof, he fell three stories, shattering both legs. Doctors told him he would never walk again or return to construction. Frank refused to accept that verdict. Through sheer grit and an unbreakable will, he proved them wrong — returning to the work he loved and continuing in construction for more than 30 years.

Beyond his work, Frank found joy in camping, fishing, traveling, and tending to his yard. He and his wife, Lavonne, shared many memorable trips together, including visits to the Black Hills, Glacier National Park, and Las Vegas. Even after suffering a stroke in 2017 that left him relying on a walker, Frank's determination never wavered. He found a way to mow his lawn and clear tree debris after storms — a testament to the same fighting spirit that had carried him through life.

Frank is survived by his children, Scott Calhoon, Sue Henderson, Michelle Calhoon, and Jason Calhoon (Trish Pham); his sister, Phyllis Houston; as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.