Dateline: Godfrey
A Celebration of Life for David Delawder is scheduled for June 25, 2022. David passed away from COVID-19 on September 8, 2020.
David was born in Galesburg, IL, on August 3, 1947, the son of John and Rosaleen Delawder. He is survived by a sister, Ann Larson and her husband, Rick; a sister-in-law Linda Delawder, and nephews Scott and Eric Delawder. He is also survived by his longtime companion, Rita Cooke; her son, Scott, and grandchildren, Michael and Madeline. In addition, Dave leaves behind a dear friend, Joe Hook. David was preceded in death by his parents and older brother, John Delawder III.
Dave came to Alton in 1969 where he began his teaching career at East Junior High School. Dave was known as the "Iron Man of East," where he spent 33 years teaching Life Science in room seven. Dave was an excellent role model and always earned the respect of his students and colleagues. He set the standard for teaching in the Alton School District. Over the years Dave earned numerous certificates, awards, letters of commendations, was inducted into several Athletic Halls of Fame and volunteered for countless organizations and groups.
When David moved to the Riverbend region, he was fortunate to meet a special group of young men that would become lifelong friends. A shared love of sports originally brought this group together. Over the decades, their friendship cemented into a special bond of care and support. Through good times and hardships, they are there for one another. From this group of men came the Wednesday Night Crew. Every other Wednesday various members of this group of friends would meet at Alton Memorial Rehabilitation & Therapy (Formerly Eunice Smith) to visit with Dave. This gift of time and caring brought Dave much happiness.
Dave's Celebration of Life will be held from 2:00-5:00 p.m. Saturday, June 25, 2022 at Mac's Downtown, located at 315 Belle Street, Alton, IL. Please come to share memories and honor this special man.
Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com