As I listened to my husband Mike reminiscing about his younger brother David, I heard lots of nostalgic stories of the two of them growing up on the farm. Although there was plenty of hard, physical labor there for everyone in the family, Mike spoke mostly of how, in their spare time, they used the barn as their gymnasium. They played endless games; basketball especially, plus badminton, archery, building forts and tunnels in the straw bales when younger, lifting weights and doing gymnastics while diving into straw when older. The boys took guitar lessons until they were pretty competent, even at classical music. Their mom loved to listen to them playing duets, and they even played at a few recitals. When David was on spring break from U of M one year, he joined Mike and I for a short backpacking trip on the Appalachian Trail in the Smokies. There had been an unseasonal huge snow storm just before we arrived, so we ended up trudging through snow more than a foot deep. After a few nights in trail shelters, we got to a point where we couldn't find the trail any longer and had to abort our plans. But it was still a glorious trip. David snapped a photo of Mike and I on the trail...me wearing David's borrowed down coat...and we blew it up to poster size where it proudly hangs in our home. There are so many other warm stories to remember and repeat about David, but I'd like to end with a quote I read from author P.J. Tracy: "Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal"

I love and cherish the memories I have had with David over the years. Those memories were collected everywhere from North Carolina to Iowa, Michigan, Illinois and at our home in Colorado. His life will be remembered well, and I shall never forget him. I will continue to honor his life with Mary Ann and the Senyk family with visits to Mary Ann's new home in Virginia. I will miss him.

I will miss you at the family gatherings and talking about gardening. You have great children and grandchildren.

David enjoyed coming to Rantoul Illinois to visit,and to ride his bike to Rural King (a store in the community) RIP

Dave was a great neighbor, fellow bicyclist, and my friend. I will miss his friendship deeply. I’m glad you are no longer suffering from that terrible disease but miss your friendship. Rest in peace my friend. Ren

Mary Ann, our hearts go out to you and David's entire family. So glad I came up to Michigan a few years back to spend time with you both. We had a great time making memories. Through the years when you both came to Rantoul to be with your mom you would always squeeze in some time for us. We got to know David as a wonderful friend, your amazing husband and a great family man. With love and remembrance, we share in your sorrow.

Mary Ann, Nora, Abby & Jordon, I send heartfelt condolences to you all at this difficult time. David was a hard working devoted family and had a kind spirit. I enjoyed spending time with him these last few years. I hope your good memories comfort you at this time. Much love, Patty

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.