Obituary published on Legacy.com by Stumpff Funeral Home & Crematory - Bartlesville on Dec. 29, 2025.
David Dean Adams, known to many as Dave, passed away peacefully at his home in
Bartlesville, Oklahoma, on December 23, 2025, at the age of 66.
David was born on June 2, 1959, in
Kingfisher, Oklahoma, to Joseph Lytle Adams and Bertha Ann Adams, both of whom preceded him in death. He grew up on the Adams Homestead of the Eighty-Nine Land Run in Kingfisher County, a place that shaped his love for creativity, mechanics, and the outdoors. He attended Dover, Crescent, and Waukomis Public Schools.
David was never married but shared his life with his beloved partner, Margo, who preceded him in death.
He was also preceded in death by his brothers Perry Joe Powers and Linville Lee Adams. He is survived by his siblings Dallas Lynn Griggs of Waukomis, Oklahoma; Joseph Earl Adams of
Bartlesville, Oklahoma; and Ruby O'Dell Tolle of Waukomis, Oklahoma.
David served his country working in the Army motor pool. After his service, he spent many years working in the oil field on drilling rigs. Following a serious injury that resulted in the loss of a finger, he transitioned to grounds maintenance work at Memorial Gardens in Oklahoma City.
A gifted and self-taught artist, David inherited a deep creative talent from his father, whose artistic abilities clearly lived on through him. David was known for creating remarkably detailed models from cardboard, paper, cereal and cracker boxes, broken jewelry chains, and salvaged radio parts. He built cars, trucks, airplanes, RC vehicles, and scratch- and kit-built models-many so realistic that he sold quite a few. His work was even featured in a Kingfisher newspaper article. He also enjoyed restoring vintage lawn mowers, working on engines, riding motorcycles, and spending time outdoors. David rode motorcycles alongside his brother Lee with the Christian Motorcycle Association (CMA).
David was always working on something. Those who knew him remember him as a good man, kind, funny, and genuinely one of the nicest people you could meet. He was known for his quiet humor, often responding with a grin and his familiar line, "What did you call me?" when he didn't quite catch what was said.
Family memories remain dear: his brother Jody fondly recalls cruising Waukomis Main Street for 45 minutes-in reverse. His sister Dallas remembers the incredible vehicles he built from scavenged materials, creations so lifelike they amazed everyone who saw them.
David dearly loved his dog, Wolfie. Wolfie was 3/4 wolf. When he could no longer care for him, he entrusted Wolfie to his sister Ruby and her husband Tony. The day they went to pick him up, they shared a meaningful visit with David at his home in Kingfisher.
In his final months, David was seeking to know God and learning about faith, a journey that brought him peace.
David will be remembered fondly by his family, friends, and classmates for his creativity, gentle nature, and enduring spirit.
A simple cremation will take place. There will be no visitation, service, or graveside ceremony, in keeping with David's wishes.
The family would like to thank all those who have reached out with love, prayers, and support during this time. Your kindness has been deeply appreciated.