David Michael Israelson, 80, of Peoria, went on Home at 8:20pm on March 8,2011. Among those waiting for Dave were his baby daughter Leona Evelyn who was born on the same day of the month in 1961 and lived only a few hours.
Dave was born December 16, 1930 to Nelson David Israelson and Edah Rosina (Kelly) Israelson. He had a wonderful childhood growing up in Chillicothe with his parents, sister and Uncle Fred. He graduated from Chillicothe High in 1948 then joined the Navy where he earned the nickname “Navy Davy” and always recalled the old days fondly.
He became a sheet metal worker in 1952 last working for Meyer Furnace Co. in Peoria retiring in 1987. His shop was one that supplied pieces for the construction of the St. Louis Gateway Arch. He was a member of Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 1.
Other survivors are two daughters, Gayle Mitchell of Peoria and Jennifer (Tim) Gill of Edelstein, sister Patricia (Tom) Fink along with 11 nieces and nephews, 17 great nieces and nephews and 1 great-great nephew of Alaska. 8 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren in the Peoria area also survive Dave. His son Michael preceded him in death in 2002.
Later in life he became affectionately known to many as ‘Grampa David’ and was well known for his jokes and light-hearted personality. Dave loved his pets Buddy ,Zulu, Moo and Doorman, his friends Cheryl, Terry and Lynette and Jack, playing his guitar, singing, laughing and watching Walker, Texas Ranger. Dave’s family wishes to thank Tammy, Patty and An for helping Dave during his last few days of illness. And Jenna from Heartland, thank you. All who knew him loved Dave and he never met a stranger. He was caring, generous and genuine and will be greatly missed. He was of the Catholic faith.
Services will be held on Saturday March 19, 2011 at 11:00 at Saint Francis Church in Dunlap. Archdeacon Dennis Brown will conduct the service and a luncheon will be held afterwards at the church. In lieu of flowers the family wishes memorials of pet food be brought to the church Saturday or given to your favorite shelter. Cremation has been accorded and the burial of ashes will be at a later date.