David Russell Axberg

In Loving Memory of David Russell Axberg
David Russell Axberg was born on August 22, 1945, in Tyler, Texas, to Mr. & Mrs. Edwin Russell Axberg. A proud resident of the Metroplex since 1971, he and his family were devoted parishioners at St. Rita's Catholic Church in Dallas, St. Phillips Catholic Church in Lewisville, and Mary Immaculate Catholic Church in Farmers Branch.
Raised in Longview, Texas, alongside his three younger brothers, David graduated from Longview High School before embarking on a journey that would define his life. Like his father, he is a graduate of Kilgore College. He attended Texas A&M University, where he joined the Aggie Corps of Cadets in 1964. In 1965, he made the brave decision to enlist in the United States Navy, serving honorably in Southeast Asia and Japan during the Vietnam War. David had the distinguished honor of being selected as a Plane Captain for the Navy's Blue Angels air demonstration team for the 1969 season.
In December 1968, he married the love of his life, Joanne Marie O'Brien, from Syracuse, New York. After completing his military service, they returned to Texas, where David completed his studies and earned a Bachelor's in Business Administration from the University of North Texas. His education also included graduate studies in International Banking at Cornell University. David embarked on a successful 40-year career in telecommunications, earning numerous accolades and awards for his work in account management with leading companies as Southwestern Bell, AT&T, and Nortel and Verizon. One of his greatest achievements was the sale of the telecommunication system to the Department of Defense in the 1980s. Following his retirement, he devoted himself to public service, becoming actively involved in philanthropic organizations such as the Lions Club, American Legion Post 597, UNT Alumni Association, The Blue Angels Alumni and the Knights of Columbus. His unwavering love for his country and community was rivaled only by the devotion he held for his family and faith.
David and Joanne raised their three beloved children-Christopher, Jennifer, and Michael Wade-in Carrollton, Texas, instilling in them the core values of Roman Catholic faith, devotion to family, and love of country. His love for his family was deep and steadfast, a testament to the strength of their bonds.
David is survived by his beloved wife Joanne/Joni, three children and their spouses Christopher (Katia) Jennifer (Matthew) and Michael (Robyn) along with his eight cherished grandchildren: Neil, Alexis, Luke, Lucie, Liam, Wade, Collin, and Lillian. His legacy of love and service will continue to inspire all who knew him.