Dave Kerr

Dave Kerr was born on January 23, 1959, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the union of Dave Hawkins, Jr. and Jessie Mae Kerr. He was raised in Cleveland and graduated from East Technical High School. After high school, Dave pursued vocational training in welding and furthered his education at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C).
Early in his life, Dave embraced the Islamic faith, joining the mosque and becoming a devoted member of Islam. His study and practice of Islam remained an important part of his life.
In 1978, Dave proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, where he was later awarded an Honorable Discharge.
Following his military service, Dave was diagnosed with, a mental health condition he managed courageously under the care of his medical team. Despite the challenges, Dave remained gentle, kind-hearted, and loving to his family and community.
Dave had a deep love for music, especially the guitar. He owned both an electric guitar and an acoustic guitar, and he practiced every day with passion and dedication. He especially enjoyed playing his acoustic guitar at family cookouts and gatherings. He was rarely seen without his guitar in hand and was always eager to share a tune. Dave often spoke with pride and hope about one day signing with Motown or Capital Records, a dream he carried in his heart throughout his life.
Dave also found great inspiration in the music of John Coltrane, the legendary American jazz saxophonist, bandleader, and composer. He listened to Coltrane's music daily and often played along on his guitar, deeply moved by the soulful improvisations and spiritual depth of the jazz great. Coltrane's music became both a comfort and a creative guide throughout Dave's musical journey.
In addition to music, Dave had a lifelong admiration for martial arts, which he began training in at an early age. He approached martial arts with the same dedication and discipline he brought to all his passions. It remained a meaningful part of his personal development and spiritual focus.
He leaves to cherish his memory his loving sisters: Elaine Kerr and Linda Kerr; his devoted niece: Edith Kerr; grand nieces and nephews: LaShae, LaShawna, Ernest Jr., LaShelle, LaWanda, Lamont (Raven), and Jeremiah; his cousins: Russell Purnell Sr., Kevin (Brenetta) Purnell, Greg (Felicia) Purnell, Bridgett Purnell, Russell (Petie) Purnell Jr., Heather Purnell, Donald Dupree Jr., Kenneth (Denise) Rowell, and a host of extended family, and friends.
Dave was a man of peace, compassion, and deep faith. His soft-spoken nature and unwavering love for his family will forever linger in our hearts.
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