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David Mihalik Obituary
David was born in Gainesville, Florida. He grew up in Jacksonville, graduating from Paxon Senior High School. A hard-working family man from a young age, he performed sales and managerial roles at Sears for 21 years. He also was a sales representative for Lakeshore Radiator and Home Depot, as well as a contracts administrator at Unisource. David enjoyed many things in life, but three things were his favorites: his family, the beach and playing guitar. He grew up surrounded by his brothers, as well as friends and neighbors -- many of whom became lifelong buddies. He had a gift for figuring out how things work and fixing them; this ability made him an original "DIYer". His girls were always thankful for his talents, and his willingness to tackle all kinds of projects. David was always happy to generously share and teach the skills he learned.
His happy place was the beach, where he spent many days over the decades surfing. His other lifelong joy was playing guitar. For many years, he had the opportunity to be a "rock star" lead guitarist with a local Jacksonville band, Nightfall. Playing music and entertaining others were some of his fondest memories. David and Karen also made memories of a lifetime traveling. He loved having adventures like helicopter rides in Colorado and Hawaii, visiting the Denali glacier by plane, surfing in Oahu and stargazing with his kids at the summit of Mauna Kea. He left this world saying, "I've had a wonderful life with no regrets." He knew he was a very blessed man. May we all honor David's memory by living the same way.
A private Celebration of Life event will be held by the family on January 20th, 2024.
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12 Entries
Mike Head
January 9, 2024
Hero. To be told on the 20th
Mary Beth Jackson
January 3, 2024
I never met David, but I worked for years as a teacher with sweet Karen. We eventually discovered that my husband, David Jackson, graduated with Karen and her husband.
My David passed away several years ago. My love and prayers are with Karen and the family. This first year will be difficult. But you are strong and you will be okay. Always remember the happy memories.
Gail and Ted Hartman
January 3, 2024
Your heart soon will be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
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Ric Coleman
January 2, 2024
I worked with Dave at Sears in Orange Park Mall. We worked on a "special project" for a sales event. He played guitar and I was on the drums and we were a little loud for the room, I thought the store manager was going to fire us.
Very talented and fun person ...sending my condolences
Kelly
December 31, 2023
I wish you healing and peace. And I hope you feel surrounded by much love. I am so sorry for your loss.
Joan Reynolds Rhoden
December 31, 2023
I didn´t know David personally in high school, but I knew if my sister friend, Karen, had any interest in him, he must be a good person. After graduation, when I did run into David and Karen, he was always so friendly and kind, like we´d grown up as friends like Karen and I. A genuinely nice person. My dear Karen, my heart and prayers are with you and the girls. I love you always, my friend.
Alison Bennett
December 31, 2023
When I think of David, "Kind" comes to my mind first. He always seemed like such a gentle soul to me. I remember all of the cool woodwork that he and Karen did together. From quilt racks to tiny wooden schoolhouses, my family and I enjoyed them all! Glen and I are praying for you and the girls, Karen. We are here for you always! Love you
Rita Franklin
December 31, 2023
Karen, my sincere condolences to you and your family. Praying that our God will comfort you and give you strength. Blessings and love to all!
Rita Franklin
Terry and Linda Weaver
December 31, 2023
I've known David for 53 years, starting when we met in band at Paxon Senior High. David was always friendly and helpful to everyone he met. I was amazed at all his gifts, especially in home DIY. I was astonished once when my wife and I visited him and Karen at their home and David was tearing down a wall to build it in another place. I never thought you could do something like that! David will be missed by many.
Julie
December 31, 2023
He was such a kind and thoughtful man. It was such a joy to have known him.
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