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David Decatur Obituary
David R. Decatur, MD, ABFP, ABAAM
Carmel, passed away March 12, 2012. Dr. Decatur was born in Indianapolis on April 14, 1939 and was an Honors Graduate of University of Indianapolis and High Honors Graduate of Indiana University School of Medicine. He was also a graduate of The School of Aerospace Medicine and served his country as a Flight Surgeon in the United States Air Force.
After interning at Marion County General Hospital and completing military service, Dr. Decatur began a long affiliation with Community Hospitals from 1967 to the present. During his professional career, he served as Medical Director for both the Marion County Sheriff's Department & Jail System and, most recently, the Decatur Vein Clinic.
Dr. Decatur's achievements were many. He was awarded the Florida Phlebology Fellowship; was elected to Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honorary; received the Merck Award for Outstanding Academic and Clinical Achievement; was Board-Certified as a Family Practitioner; was an Acupuncturist; and was Board Certified in Anti-Aging Medicine. Dr. Decatur was a member of American Academy of Phlebology, Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, American College for the Advancement of Medicine, and American Academy of Medical Acupuncture.
Survivors of Dr. Decatur include his son, Trent Decatur; daughters, Paige Swayze (Brian), Brooke Whitten (Tom) and Debbie Decatur; brothers, Robert (Betty) and Steve Decatur; fourteen grandchildren, Drew and Lane Decatur; Sloane and Cade Swayze; Sydney, Michael, Bren, Sarah, Thomas, Sophia, Annamarie, Tessa and Hope Whitten; Connor Decatur; several nephews and companion, Marybeth Whitcomb; He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard L. Decatur and Ruth Patten Decatur; son, Blake Decatur.
Dr. Decatur will always be remembered for his compassion and willingness to help others. This was especially true in his medical practices and with his family. The yearly trips to Bonita Beach and Doc's Beach House will be forever treasured. He embraced life to its fullest, whether vacationing in St. Martin, rooting on the Colts or having beer and wings with his family and friends. His positive attitude, determination, generosity and loving spirit will continue to impact the people he knew for generations to come. The family would like to thank Dr. Craig Veatch, his staff and all of the medical personnel who have provided outstanding care for Dr. Decatur over the past few years.
Family and friends will gather on Friday, March 16, 2012 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the Leppert Mortuary, Nora Chapel . Funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 17, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Peace Cemetery Chapel. You are invited to visit http://www.leppertmortuary.com to sign the guestbook or make memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society or American Heart Association.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Decatur
Sandy Schmadeke
March 9, 2025
His memory will always remain in the hearts and minds of his "friends." He was a friend and a real Docter who really cared. He tried and did his best I'm sure with all his patients as he did, trying to find the cause of my children's father's disease. It took hundreds of doctors including the Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic and finally 7 years later a UCLA medical team found a malignant brain tumor. It took that long growing to finally be large enough to find, only to be too long to completely remove. David followed his care and their discoveries or lack thereof over those 7 long years. That's a lot of time for a young doctor to follow a case, but that's the kind of person he truly was.
There's a lot of fun and some not so nice stories that could be told about him, but as once was said, "let him who has not sinned throw the first stone."
That's my story of a good friend and great doctor.
Sandy
Heather Smith
December 26, 2016
David Decatur, was a very kind man to my mother Lynn Smith and I and my family he delivered myself and my brother out of 4 children. He was a close friend to my mother and kept our family well and safe for decades . I didn't know he passed on till recently and i I pray the Decatur Family is healing and know he is always with you. GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
April 10, 2012
To the Decatur Family: Your father, brother, Grandpa & friend left such an impact on all of his friends and patients that adored him. What a handsome man he was with such class and elegant taste he had for homes,cars, and business. The memories of him will never leave our hearts. It saddens me greatly that he is gone, but I know that heaven has a big angel now that can take care of his loved ones. David is missed by many broken hearts, but you have so much to be proud of and smile about, and all the good years spending with him. Vacations, holidays, and birthdays. A super classy man that never was self centered,and always a generous person who truley cared about everyone no matter who it was. We need more David Decatur's in this world. Happy-Happy Birthday & may he rest in peace. The prayers will keep coming for the family and for your difficult loss. Many Blessings for a super man.
John England
April 4, 2012
I went to Dr. Decatur as my doctor in the 1960's as a young man and stayed until he closed his practice. I remember he always had very nice cars, usually German, and very attractive staff. We would sometimes talk briefly about the cars. I always found it interesting that he moved on to the fragrance? treatment and then to the vein clinic, whereas so many people stick with the same stuff. I will say I thought he was somewhat older. As a Doctor he was always the gold standard of what to expect in a family doctor and I have never found anyone to even come close to his skill levels, both personal and professional. I really regret not seeing him in his later life at least once. I just learned today of his death so I apologize for this belated message. I hope his family appreciates what they have.
Keith Mumford
March 28, 2012
I am saddened by the loss of this man. Dr. Decatur was my family Doctor for over 30 years, until his retirement from Family Practice. I only recently learned of his passing and belatedly offer my sincere condolences to his family and will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Anyone who knew David, understands the impact this loss will have on such a wonderful family. I'm so sorry!
March 28, 2012
Dr. Decatur was such a wonderful person and our doctor. Anytime he would treat your child and you were scared of his diagnosis, or treatment plan, he would say " I'm treating this just like she was one of my own kids & this is what I would do for them". The doc has truely been missed since he left family practice and found and started Decatur Vein. I am still in the grieving process and think of him constantly, since the loss of your Dad. The mold has been broken and there will be NO other loving and caring jewel as Dr Decatur for a replacement. He is at peace now,and smiling his good looking smile down on us,and has his wings now. I know I will see him in heaven when God is ready for me as well. Der. Decatur, your birthday is coming soon & Happy Birthday, you will be greatly missed by ALL who loved you! Peace
March 27, 2012
The world has lost a loving and caring human being. One that will be missed and remembered always. I can hear your laughter and see the glee in those eyes. My prayers go out to your family. Someday I'll see ya at the pearly gates my friend…..Kathy G.
March 27, 2012
The world has lost a loving and caring human being. One that will be missed and remembered always. I can hear your laughter and see the glee in those eyes. My prayers go out to your family. Someday I'll see ya at the pearly gates my friend…..Kathy G.
March 26, 2012
Dear Family,
So sorry to here about the lose of your Dad! He and My Mom Bev (cruse)Stafford were neighbors and school mates all the way thru high school. Then he became My parents (Don & Bev Stafford's) doctor. As well as myself and my Grandparents (Floyd & Dorothy Cruse) Doctor. He will be greatly missed and was one of the best Doctors around. I understand the lose you are feeling, My mom passed away in December! May he rest in peace & God Bless!
Pam Gordin
March 22, 2012
Dave,
Doc's pizza and those hot pepper seeds will never be the same without you. Love you man.
Woody
March 19, 2012
David, You changed my life forever. I will be one of those people who will miss wings and beer with you.
Joy
kimberly syrus
March 18, 2012
David:
You will be missed by so many. Thanks for the best medical care that could ever be given...and for also being a great friend. Kimberly Syrus
Shawn
March 17, 2012
David was my rock and my best friend. He helped me through many up and downs in my life.(mainly ups!) He taught me things that have and will continue to benefit me for the rest of my life! Because of David, I had many awesome experiences and met many wonderful people. David's family are truly amazing! My life will not be the same without him, yet I feel so blessed to have had him in my life these past 19 years! Rest in peace Harley and I will see you before you know it! Strength and love to the family.
Love you always,
Shawn
Jennifer Lund Lawrence
March 16, 2012
Brooke and Trent,
I am so sorry to hear of your dad's passing.
Many of my fondest childhood memories center around the times spent with you and your Mom and Dad in the Brentwood house.
Growing up in Indy, I came to know your dad, Dave, as a brilliant and dedicated doctor. But more than that, I knew him to be an incredible friend to our family.
Both your mom and dad were great people. It breaks my heart knowing how much you have lost in a short amount of time.
After moving away from Indy we have lost touch through the years. Just know that no matter the time or distance you both continue to be close to my heart.
I love you and I keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Spiker Family Spiker
March 16, 2012
Our prayers are with you Paige. We have been praying for all of the Decatur family and asking God to comfort all of you at this time. What a "healer" your Dad was. He helped so many people with sickness and comforted them in his time here on earth. God certainly gave him the gift of healing. He will be truly missed by so many.
yvette wallace
March 16, 2012
The Decatur Family..I am sending love and prayers your way. Doc will Truly be missed. Their are so many great memories i have of him. It was an honor and a pleasure taking care of him. Dr.Decatur leaves behind a "Great Legacy". He was a Class Act, Great Man, & Great Role Model! R.I.P. Dr. David Decatur...Gone But Never Forgotten..
American Heart Association
March 16, 2012
May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.
Lorraine Jenkins
March 15, 2012
I was saddened to hear of Dave's passing. Although, it has been many years since we shared family holidays,I remember his cheerfulness and lighthearted humor. My heartfelt sympathy in you time of sorrow.
Donna Oberting
March 15, 2012
Thanks for the wonderful care of my mother and father.
Vicki Keller
March 15, 2012
Dr. Decatur was our family doctor in much younger years. We loved him and he was always so good to us. The world has lost a wonderful man.
Rhonda Sinders
March 15, 2012
Dr. Decatur was our family doctor for over 20 years. Whenever I would go in for an appointment it was like a reunion because so many neighbors and friends went to him too. He was a great doctor and person and will be very missed.
Nancy Catanella
March 15, 2012
My life will never be the same without my good friend. Love to his family
Vikki Bunch
March 15, 2012
My thoughts and prays are with Dr Decatur's family. He was one of the physicians I worked for at Arlington Medical Lab, years ago.
Vikki Bunch
Sandra Denton
March 15, 2012
Dr. Decatur was our family doctor for many years, and we thought so much of him. He was an amazing diagonstician. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this sad time.
Bob Bruner
March 15, 2012
March 15, 2012
Dave Decatur was fine friend,attentive and kind physician,and gentle man. He made a difference in my life, and that of my children and so many others. Thank you, Dave, your friend,
Andrea Clark-Quick
March 15, 2012
Dr. Decatur delivered me 40 years ago and was our family doctor for almost 20 years. He saved my life when I was 13. My appendix had burst and when my dad carried me into his office, he took one look and sent me directly to the hospital for surgery. I can remember him coming to see me later that night in the hospital after surgery and when he left, he kissed the top of my head and I was so completely comforted. I have never forgotten what a simple gesture like that can do. Thank you, Dr Decatur, even thought that doesn't seem adequate. My heartfelt sympathies to his family.
David Duvall
March 15, 2012
Dr. Decatur was our family doctor when I was growing up. He was always kind and I didn't mind getting sick because I got to visit him. The last time I saw him was a month before my 21 st birthday and came down with a bad case of chicken pox. He helped me get over them. I will not forget him. Thank you Dr. Decatur.
Starr's
March 15, 2012
Dr. Decatur was our family Dr. & friend for many years, the last baby he delivered was our son. We were sad when he left family practice and sad today because he has left our lives. Prayers for the family..
Karen Longere
March 15, 2012
My deepest sympathy& prayers go out to the Decatur family. David Decatur was my family doc for 28yrs and my daughter's. He stopped everything & took care of her when she was badly burned. An awesome doctor & friend which I never found a better doc after the closing of his practice. He had a caring heart of gold and loved his patients.With a heavy heart & saddness you will forever be missed.
Connie Snyder
March 15, 2012
My prayers are with the family of Dr. Decatur. I will never find another doctor that I loved so much as Dr. Decatur. He provided care for me and my family for years until he left family practice. Connie Borisenko Snyder
Michelle Borden-Rubendall
March 15, 2012
Dr. Decatur was my first Dr. starting when I was so little I can't remember. He was a Wonderful Dr. and family friend. It was not ever scary as a child to go to his office. He was Wonderful to my mother who had health issues even then. I Pray that you Rest In Peace Doc. You will be Missed! My Prayers go out to the entire Decatur family on the loss of such a Wonderful Man.
Amanda Bruner-Hostetler
March 15, 2012
Dr. Dave was our family doctor throughout my childhood. He delivered me in 1970, my brothers in the next years. I remember him being so dashingly handsome around the time I was 6 years old, that I didn't want my mother to take me to see him when I was sick, for fear that I didn't look my best...my crush was powerful. I remember him at our home comforting my parents when my baby brother died. We have repeated time and again funny things that happened and funny things Dr. Dave said in those years he cared for us. Truly he is a pillar of my childhood memories. Though I have long ago left my childhood and now live with my own family on the other side of the world, my heart was truly saddened to hear of his passing. He was amazing.
My condolences to whole Decatur family, we were blessed that you shared him with us.
March 14, 2012
Into my heart's treasury I slipped a coin
Which time cannot rust nor thief purloin
Oh better than the minting of a gold-crown king
Is the safe kept memory of a lovely thing.
Thank you, David, for being a good friend of mine. I will always remember how positive, generous, fun and loyal you were.
Susie Keller
Jo Anne Lansdell
March 14, 2012
My husband was 1 of Dr. Decatur's first patients when he was on Arlington Ave. In 1968 he gave us our blood test for our marriage license & in 1971 he delivered our son. I also have praise for him finding my cancer in 1979. He was our family Doctor for years to me, my husband & our 3 children, until he moved North. I have not found another more caring Doctor than him. My condolences go out to his children & grandchildren. They must be very proud. He was a great Doctor & friend. Jo Anne Lansdell (Indianapolis)
March 14, 2012
Was so sorry to hear about Dr. Decatu, he was a fine Doctor, and help me a lot. He will be sadly missed. Connie Illy (Greenfield In.)
Nick and Cory Frutiger
March 14, 2012
Our condolences go out to Dave's family and close friends. He was a truly genuine man and a pleasure to know and do business with. He will be missed.
Theresa Shidler
March 14, 2012
Our deepest sympathies to the family. Dr. Decatur cared for 4 generations of my family before he left general practice, and we have never found another doctor that made us feel truly cared for as he did. We trusted him with out lives and considered him so much more than a doctor. He will truly be missed.
Jim Lund
March 14, 2012
Dave was technically the finest fanily doctor I've known,as well as being a most generous friend to me and my family. In addition to all of that, he was a character whose life will provide us all with incredible memories.
william borden
March 14, 2012
Dr.Decauter was a extroidinary,loyal friend to our family throughout the 70's,and 80's,he always was there for my mother who went through a battered marraige,and always was compassionate,and professional.In my opinion there should be a tribute of him,that would be everlasting like his kindness was.May you rest in peace,and God bless the family.
Pat and John (Carlini) Miller
March 14, 2012
To the Decatur family, Dr. Decatur was just a great guy and an awesome Doctor who truly cared about people. He will be missed....
Sandra Schmadeke
March 14, 2012
Another loss of a long time friend and Doctor. My family was one of Dave's first patient's when he was interning. My heart goes out to all the family, and may he rest in peace.
Susan Hoyt
March 14, 2012
My condolences to the entire Decatur family. Dr. Decatur was a very compassionate and caring doctor. He basically saved my daughter's life, for which I will be forever grateful. My prayers are with you.
Rod and Karen Caldwell
March 14, 2012
To the family of Dr. Decatur,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Dr. Decatur was our family doctor for 35 years. He was always so caring and concerned....always positive and encouraging.... a wonderful doctor and person.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
fran mills
March 14, 2012
As a former nurse at Community East in the 80s and taking care of your patients I know you were an awesome doctor and you will be missed...Your patients adored you...Rest in Peace (Fran Mills, R.N.)
Cliff Nall
March 14, 2012
To the Decatur family, I am truly sorry for your loss. My family and I are grateful for the memories and kindness that your family has given us over the years. Thank You, Cliff
Rita Klaasse
March 14, 2012
Our condolences to Dr. Dave's family and many friends. Many years ago he delivered our 2 children and provided compassionate care to our entire family.
May he rest in peace and his loved ones know the healing touch of God's hand.
Kim Melton
March 14, 2012
The absolute best Dr ever!! RIP Dr. Decatur!
Tina Chance
March 14, 2012
Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of such a wonderful man! His love of life and living it to the fullest will live on in the lives of his friends and family! Trent, Paige & Brooke, we will keep all of you in our prayers, as you move forward! May his life be celebrated and remembered and may his memory live long in your hearts!!! Our love and prayers, Brent & Tina
Tim Hoover
March 14, 2012
I'll miss you my friend, seems like we grew up together
Hoov
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