David Matthew Kellems

David Matthew Kellems was born in Michigan City, Indiana, on April 4, 1971, the son of Jack and Mary Kellems. David passed away in Indianapolis on April 22, 2022, following a brave battle with cancer.

He was also affectionately known as "Captain Dave" for his boating adventures or simply "The Daver." Throughout his life he was surrounded by tons of friends; friendships that date back to kindergarten at Crichfield and many more from his days in Terre Haute, Chicago and Indianapolis.

Dave lived life to the fullest and was immediately loved by everyone that met him. Dave loved to entertain his friends and loved the water, particularly Pine Lake. He was famous for hosting Fourth of July parties that often extended into the following day, where he was joined by his friends as they delighted many on the lake with a spectacular fireworks show.

David graduated from La Porte High School in 1989 and received a bachelor's degree from Indiana State University, where he was also a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. David worked in a variety of corporate sales positions where he was extremely successful, and won numerous awards based on his warm personality and strong work ethic.

The folks at Indiana Rehabilitation Hospital in Carmel were amazed at the constant stream of friends that came to visit following his stroke. They didn't bat an eye when someone brought a cold beer, which he readily drank, or some of his favorite foods, which his friends helped feed him!

As his health declined, Dave never complained and handled it with grace. He felt fortunate to have been able to see his son, Jack, grow into a fine young man which bought him much peace. Jack was truly the best thing that ever happened to him and one of his proudest accomplishments.

David is survived by his son, Jack; his mother, Mary; brothers, Duane, Bill (Proaw) and Mike; and nieces, Corianne Kellems and Catherine Trusty. He was preceded in death by his father, Jack; sisters, Chris and Cindy; nephew, Jack "JD" Kellems; aunt, Margret Sassetti; uncle, John Ott; great-grandmother, Helen Weiler; grandparents, Phil and Florence Ott; grandmother, Jenetta Kellems; and grandmother, Agnes Scaduto.

"The Daver" also leaves behind a plethora of friends too numerous to list. To know Dave was to love Dave. His legacy will live forever in the many great stories his friends will continue to keep alive and is the definition of what great friendships are all about. Dave was so blessed to have you all as friends; please know you are all so deeply appreciated!

Visitation will be from 2 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 27, 2022, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Ave., La Porte, Indiana.

A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, April 28, 2022, at the funeral home, where family and friends may visit from 10 to 11 a.m. prior to the services. (All times CST). Pastor Dennis Meyer will officiate.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of David's life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please visit www.EsslingFuneral Home.com.