Dave Marcouiller '71

Dave Marcouiller graduated from Dowling Catholic High School in 1971. It was during his four years as a student at Dowling Catholic that he developed a foundational allegiance to, as well as a relationship and love for Dowling Catholic High School that continues today.

 

Dave graduated from Drake University in 1974, the same year that he married his high school sweetheart, Margaret Duff SJA ‘72. Dave and Margaret have been married for 51 years and are proud parents of three daughters, Kristin Schaffer-Richey ‘95, Michelle Curtin ’98, and Kelli Hruby ‘00 - all Catholic school educators. They were also blessed with seven grandchildren.  

 

Dave pursued a career in coaching and teaching at St Joseph and Garrigan High School in Algona, Iowa. In 1978, he returned to Des Moines to teach at St. Theresa School, and he began coaching football, softball, and basketball at Dowling Catholic. 

 

In 1980, Dave returned to his beloved alma mater as an English teacher and continued his work as a coach. In those early years, whether in the classroom or on the football field, softball diamond, or basketball court, he was dedicated to teaching both academic lessons and the fundamentals of sport. During this time, he also formed lasting friendships with fellow teachers and coaches that endure to this day. 

 

While maintaining his position as a teacher and coach, Dave obtained his Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from Drake University in 1991.  He returned to St. Theresa School serving as principal  from 1991 to 1998.  During his time as principal he again showed his allegiance to DCHS when asked to coach the offensive line for the varsity football team.  

 

In 1998, Dave returned once again to Dowling Catholic, this time as Assistant Principal. He became well known for walking the halls—an intentional practice that allowed him to connect with students, support faculty, and stay closely engaged with the life of the school.

 

Dave retired from DCHS in 2012.  But he could not say goodbye to DCHS so he continued his career as the football commentator on Iowa Catholic Radio for the DCHS’ varsity football games for a total of 16 years. 

 

His commitment to service extended beyond the school as well. Dave volunteered with the food pantry, Connection Café, and spent many Saturdays working with Habitat for Humanity. 

Dave’s greatest sense of accomplishment comes from the role he played in guiding students through their high school journey—helping transform young, often uncertain freshmen into confident, capable seniors grounded in faith, education, and community, ready to take on life’s challenges.  

 

For the past 57 years, Dave has been a student, teacher, coach, administrator, parent, grandparent, and a radio announcer within the Dowling Catholic community. He is, without question, a lifelong supporter who truly “bleeds maroon.” Along the way, he has impacted countless students—many of whom still seek him out to share memories and gratitude.

 

With heartfelt sincerity, Dave speaks often of the profound impact the “Dowling Catholic experience” has had on his life and career. And when asked what he remembers most, his answer is simple: Of course—the Dowling–Valley games. All 57 of them.