Dave Whitaker

David “Dave” Whitaker of Eureka, Missouri, was born November 15, 1940 in St. Louis, Missouri to Cecil and Pearl (nee Lindsey) Whitaker and entered into rest Saturday, March 14, 2026 in Eureka, Missouri at the age of 85 years. He is preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Pearl (nee Lindsey) Whitaker; sons, Rockey Whitaker and Ricky Whitaker; sister, Bonnie Quick. He is survived by his loving wife, Betty (nee Weber) Whitaker; children, Robby (Ed) Politte, Steve (Julye) Bowen, and David (Christine) Bowen; grandchildren, Spencer Whitaker, Shayna Hayes, Shelby Whitaker, Ryan Whitaker, Brady Politte, Bailey Politte, Stephanie Bowen, Matthew Bowen, and Lauren Bowen; 8 great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Tracy Whitaker; along with numerous beloved nieces, nephews, in-laws, and other extended family and friends. Dave lived a life driven by passion, service, and the things he loved most. He began volunteering as a firefighter in Valley Park at just 16 years old, a calling that stayed with him throughout his life and led to a long career with the Fenton Fire District until his retirement in 1995. Being a firefighter was truly his passion, and he was proud to be part of the Missouri Mules alongside fellow firefighters. Outside of the fire service, Dave enjoyed life’s simple pleasures—boating and fishing, riding his motorcycle on day trips, working with his model trains, and embracing new technology like flying his drones. In earlier years, he coached his son’s baseball with the Valley Park Athletic Association, a time he greatly enjoyed. And anyone who knew Dave knew his love for Corvettes, proudly owning three over the years. He will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. Private services will be held at Chapel Hill Mortuary with interment at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made on behalf of Dave Whitaker to Backstoppers, (https://backstoppers.org/donate/). Family and friends can review and share stories, photos and condolences online at www.stlfuneral.com and follow details of this event and others in the community at www.facebook.com/stlchapelhill.

Dave Whitaker

November 15, 1940 - March 14, 2026