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Mt. Pleasant mourns passing of Dave Heaton
From near and far, many recall Heaton not only as a former Iowa State Representative, but an important member of the Mt. Pleasant community
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MT. PLEASANT — The Mt. Pleasant community mourns the loss of Dave Heaton, a longtime public servant and local business owner whose impact stretched far beyond Henry County. Heaton, who passed away on Feb. 12 at the age of 84, served in the Iowa House of Representatives for 24 years, championing causes that improved the lives of Iowans.
A Republican with a pragmatic and compassionate approach, Heaton was known for his leadership on mental health care, human services, and education. He chaired the Health and Human Services Budget Subcommittee, where he played a key role in shaping policy. Even after leaving office, he continued to push for improvements.
“I remember this last summer when we were at Rotary together, he had pointed questions about the mental health redesign and wasn’t shy about sharing what he thought the Health and Human Services Committee should be working on,” Rep. Taylor Collins said on the Iowa House floor the day of Heaton’s passing.
Heaton's political career was defined by a willingness to work across party lines. Rep. Sean Bagniewski recalled an encounter with Heaton as a young law student.
“When I was a law student in 2008, I wrote my first bill … Dave was on the bill’s subcommittee and grilled me before and during the hearing,” he shared. “To my surprise, he ended up supporting the measure … He told me he’d vote for anything that helps Iowans.”
“Rep. Heaton was a regular coffee club member at our convenience store, and I spent countless mornings with him talking about the Capitol and the things that occurred there. Such a kind man, will be GREATLY missed,” Sen. Adrian Dickey shared.
A little closer to home, Henry County Supervisor Chad White said Heaton, “was always a friendly soul and served his community in many ways.”
Many from Mt. Pleasant remember Heaton from before his tenure in the statehouse, when he and his wife, Carmen, owned and operated The Iris Restaurant for 42 years. The restaurant was more than a business — it was a community gathering place, where Heaton was often seen carving roast beef for the Sunday buffet and listening to each individual as they came through.
Ginny Butcher, former employee of Heaton’s for 17 years stated that Iris Restaurant was one the best places to dine in Southeast Iowa and Heaton was the “best boss to work for.”
His influence extended into the local education system, where he worked closely with school boards and institutions. Current Iowa Association of School Boards President Jesse Howard shared that he got to know Heaton during his time serving on the New London Community School District Board and as a trustee at Southeastern Community College.
“He was always willing to listen and collaborate on important education issues,” Iowa Association of School Boards Jesse Howard said. “His insight and commitment to our community were truly inspiring.”
Heaton was a mentor and friend to many, remembered as someone who embodied public service.
“He was a giant of a man, mentor, friend, and neighbor. Always humble and selfless,” Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks wrote.
The outpouring of remembrances reflects the lasting mark Heaton left on his community and state. Whether in politics, business, or casual conversations over coffee, his focus remained on serving others. His legacy is one of dedication, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to making Iowa a better place.
Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com
