David Alden "Diff" Diffenderfer

1935 - 2026

Florence, Ky. - David Alden Diffenderfer passed away on January 8, 2026, at the age of 90. Born on June 21, 1935, David lived a life defined by steadiness, integrity, and service-to his family, his country, his church, and his community.

A graduate of La Jolla High School, Class of 1953, David earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Stanford University in 1957. He was a member and captain of the Stanford golf team and a member of Delta Chi fraternity. Beginning in 1957, he served his country with distinction in the US Air Force as part of the 492nd Tactical Fighter Squadron, serving in Europe and Asia during the Cold War. In 1965, he joined the Arizona Air National Guard and became a proud lifetime member of the Super Sabre Society and the Command Bar Stoolers.

David flew commercially for Continental Airlines for 19 years, and was an active leader in the Air Line Pilots Association. He later began a second career as a Certified Public Accountant in New Mexico. After a move to Illinois in 2006, he shared his commitment to professional responsibility as a college instructor teaching auditing and ethics at the University of Phoenix in Louisville, KY.

David was deeply involved in civic life. When his children were young, he served as a Cub Scout leader. He later became an executive leader and organizer of the Amigo Airshow, the premier airshow in El Paso, Texas. In his years as a resident of Illinois, he was a member of the Crawford County Airport Authority.

His faith guided much of his life. He was active in Kairos Prison Ministry and was a lay minister at FCI La Tuna in El Paso, where he offered compassion, encouragement, and hope to others.

David is survived by his wife, Sharon; his sons Richard Diffenderfer (Barbara Bernstein), Steve Diffenderfer (Rhea Nygard), John Diffenderfer (Christine Falsetti), and Travis LaRoche (Jennifer) and by his grandchildren Jacob, Michael, Katie, Kaylee, Emily, Carlie, and Michael Travis and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his former spouse, Susan Green.

David was predeceased by his parents Lloyd Diffenderfer and Majorie Wall; brother Michael Diffenderfer; and grandson Benjamin Diffenderfer.

He will be remembered for his loyalty, quiet leadership, and lifelong dedication to serving others.