David S. Cairns

David S. Cairns, beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away peacefully after a long illness on Saturday July 6, 2024 at Christiana Hospital in Newark, DE. Born on June 26, 1950, at Fort Dix NJ, Dave, as he was affectionately known by family and friends, will be remembered by all as a loving family man characterized by his strength, intelligence, dignity, work ethic, and wisdom.
David was the devoted son of the late Mary Cairns (nee Curnew) and of the late David D. Cairns. He was also predeceased by special Uncle Wilmer Geer and Aunt Johanna Geer (nee Curnew).
He is survived by his devoted and cherished wife Debra (nee Wimmer) who cared for him tirelessly and selflessly throughout his final illness, and loving daughter Chrysta Wilson (Kevin). Dave also leaves two grandchildren, Emma and Charlotte to treasure their memories of their "Pop." He is also survived by a sister, Kathyann Dibernardo (Nick), a half-sister Heather Johnson, and multiple nieces and nephews.
David attended Triton High School, and when Highland High School opened he was among its first graduating class in Blackwood, NJ in 1968. David enlisted in the US Army at the same military base where he was born, Fort Dix, and he proudly and honorably served his country during the Vietnam Conflict.
At the conclusion of David's time in the military, he earned a degree in Marketing while pursuing a career in that field that spanned decades, serving in many different management and executive roles throughout his career.
Dave was a passionate hobbyist when it came to computers, teaching himself how to code in the early 80s and continuing his love of computer technology throughout the rest of his life. There was nothing computer-related that he could not fix. This hobby inspired his second career after retiring from the corporate world when he joined the staff of Oldmans Township School District in 2008 as their Technology Specialist, handling all aspects of technology for the district. His favorite part of this work was the opportunity to help the young students with their technology needs and watch them grow as they advanced through grade levels.
Dave's talent for handiness was not limited to the realm of technology. There was almost nothing broken that he could not repair, and he prided himself on his immaculate home and yard.
An avid fisherman, over the years many of his best times were spent fishing with friends and loved ones, especially enjoying many weekends fishing for carp with his wife Debbie. He almost always posed for a photo with his catches and then threw them back so they could live to swim another day.
Dave was a Philadelphia sports fan, particularly of the Eagles, who he watched every game, win or lose, through good seasons and bad.
Above all, Dave will be remembered as a husband, father, grandfather, coworker and friend who was devoted to his family and who doted on his grandchildren. His family will miss him dearly, but he will live on within them through his wise advice through the years and the memories of their times together.
At the request of the family, there will be no public visitation. David's ashes will be interred at St. Joseph's Cemetery in Chews Landing at a later date.
Condolences may be shared at www.earlefuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in David's memory to The Vietnam Veterans of America at https://vva.org/donate/