David Ray Gindlesperger

David (Dave) Ray Gindlesperger (67) of Akron, Ohio was welcomed into the company of his Lord on September 27, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was a warm, compassionate, and loving man whose spirit touched all that knew him.

He was a devoted husband, father, coach, and best friend who provided for his family as a Journeyman Machinist working for over 25 years at T.J. Karg Co. Dave had a very strong work ethic and had also later taken on a second job working the night shift at JB Manufacturing Inc. Dave thoroughly enjoyed the work in his trade, and in the latter years of his employment he worked at Aircraft Braking Systems/Meggitt alongside his daughter in law's (Mary's) father, Mitchell Griggs, before his retirement due to health issues.

Dave faced many hurdles throughout his life beginning at childhood with kidney health complications. He spent the first handful of his birthdays in the hospital due to this. Dave's strong will and optimistic attitude helped him beat the odds. He was fortunate to have never required dialysis and blessed with the donation of a kidney from his brother, Ron, as a perfect gift three days before his 42nd birthday. Though there were more challenges along his path, his transplant significantly improved his quality of life for over 25 years. 

Dave was an active attending member of Eastwood Church of the Brethren serving others when he saw a need or was called upon. He liked keeping busy and enjoyed volunteering at Good Neighbors Community Outreach and Food Center in Goodyear Heights, Akron.

Dave had a zest for life and was always on the go. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle on journeys near and far with his buddy (Marvin). He loved spending time on little trips and "not so little" vacations with his family. He liked cooking and experimenting with new ideas, making every meal a little different. He got a kick out of playing video games, especially with family. He was always excited to watch the Dallas Cowboys, all the way up until it was time to "Turn out the lights!". His creativeness and unique ideas led him to many small projects over the years including ceramics and woodworking. He also loved to play his favorite game which was to "Watch the back of his eyelids".

Dave's strong values and positive attitude guided him throughout his life never shirking his duties and responsibilities. He was a straight shooter and would always tell you how it is. His witty sense of humor could always brighten a gloomy day, and you could always count on a "Dave'ism" or two. When times were tough and rocky, he would always try to encourage you to "Make it a great day" and would always be there for support. He would always lend an ear and have a shoulder to lean on without judgment. His patience, love, and kindness was a testament to the man he was, and he was beloved by all who were lucky enough to know him. 

Dave is survived by his daughter (aka the “darling one”) Sarah (Jhon) Lifonzo and his son and “best bud” David M. (Mary) Gindlesperger; beloved lifelong friend, Barb Nachtrab and her sons Ryan (Diane) Nachtrab and Nick Nachtrab; brother, George Gindlesperger; sisters-in-law Betty Gindlesperger, Debra (Mike Roth) Dovala, Angela Bowman, Barbie (Randy) Allshouse, and Gina (Dan Clarke) Monte; and beloved nieces and nephews.

Dave was preceded in death by his wife and the love of his life, Leone Gindlesperger; his mother and father Willard "Zack" and Rose Gindlesperger and his parents-in-law Louis and Barbara {Fitts} Monte; brothers Jim and Ronald Gindlesperger, sisters Kathy and Millie Gindlesperger; and brother-in-law John Dovala.

All are welcome to visit at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 N. Canton Rd. Akron, OH 44305 on Friday, October 4th from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., and from 5:00-7:00 p.m. The family invites friends and loved ones to join them in celebrating Dave’s life on Saturday, October 5th at Eastwood Church of the Brethren, 581 Darrow Rd. Akron, OH 44305 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Cindy Peel officiating. To leave a message for Dave's family, please visit the guestbook below.