David J Wancata

West Chester - David John Wancata, 74, passed away on Aug. 2 in Cincinnati following a battle with cancer. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio, to Ethel and George Wancata, the sixth of 13 children. He is preceded in death by his parents and brothers Jackie and Dennis. His brother Tom followed David in death within hours of his passing. David is survived by his siblings, George, Elaine, Joyce, Kathy, Lynn, Carole, Jim, Jeff and Bruce. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, including two godchildren.

A 1968 graduate of Independence High School where he lettered in three sports, David went on to Miami University, alternately attending school and working to put himself through college. He was a proud member of the Sigma Nu fraternity. Graduating in 1975 with a degree in teaching, he was the first member of his family to earn a college degree, which he followed with a master's degree in Administration from Xavier University in 1982.

David had a successful career as a teacher, administrator and coach at various schools in the Cincinnati area. He began his career at Fairfield High School, teaching business and serving as assistant football coach. At Lockland High School, he was an assistant principal and head football coach. Over seven seasons, he guided the Panthers to two undefeated seasons and multiple state tournament appearances while earning Coach of the Year honors. He also served as dean of students at Mason Junior High before retiring in 2007, though he returned to fill interim positions in the Milford ISD and New Miami ISD before officially retiring in 2009.

David was a selfless and kind person who did much for others without wanting recognition in return. He touched the lives of his students and players in simple but important ways, such as by providing ties to wear on game days for players who couldn't afford them and taking game uniforms home to launder for students whose home circumstances prevented them from being able to do so themselves. He stayed in touch with many of his students beyond graduation, often following their careers and making himself available to them as a mentor.

After retiring, David volunteered at the New Life Mission in Hamilton. He was a lifelong blood donor and a longtime member of Saint John the Evangelist Church in Fairfield, where he attended services regularly. He was an avid NASCAR fan and enjoyed golfing and bicycling. A lifetime Cleveland Browns fan, David was a season ticket holder who often gave away his tickets so that others could enjoy the experience. He had a great sense of humor and infectious smile and was a loyal friend. He maintained close relationships with his Sigma Nu brothers throughout his life.

A mass will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 4, at St. Michael Catholic Church, 6912 Chestnut Road, Independence, Ohio, followed by a burial service at St. Lawrence Cemetery, 4511 Rockside Road in Independence. A luncheon in his honor will follow immediately at Vodrazka Funeral Care, 6505 Brecksville Road, Independence.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to New Life Mission (https://missionhamilton.org) or Hospice of Cincinnati Blue Ash (www.hospiceofcincinnati.org).