David Allen Grace

David Allen Grace

May 10, 1949 – February 19, 2026

With tender hearts, we announce the passing of David Allen Grace, who peacefully departed this life to be present with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 19, 2026, at the age of 76 years old.

Though our hearts ache in this parting, we are grateful for the years we were given and the hope we have that we will see him again in eternity.

Born on May 10, 1949, in Marion, Ohio, to Joseph E. Grace and Alice Louise Grace, David entered the world with a fighting spirit and a personality that would brighten any room with laughter.

Those who knew him early on remember that he was an Evil Knievel wannabe and an ornery child always pulling pranks or getting into trouble. He was gregarious and made friends easily.

After graduating from Marion Pleasant High School, David joined the United States Marine Corps. Soon after enlisting, he was deployed to Vietnam during the Vietnam War where he was wounded in action and ultimately received the Purple Heart. His time with the Marine Corps deeply shaped his drive in life, his character, and his commitment to freedom. This experience inspired his writing of "The Smallest Parade." Throughout life, David devoted himself to being a provider for his family. Whether it was his own business, a good sales pitch, or his time working for the government, he always prided himself on an excellent work ethic. Whether in the workplace or at home, he was known for his humor.

More than titles or achievements, it was David's personality that defined him.

He loved fishing, deer-hunting, singing oldies, dancing the Hustle in the living room, playing his harmonica, Ohio State Football, beating anyone at any game - especially Euchre or Cribbage, shooting guns, and making people laugh. He was the best storyteller.

He carried strong convictions, steady wisdom, and a playful wit that left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to walk alongside him.

He held to the truths of the Christian faith and believed in the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Though he did not always speak at length about his faith, he believed in Christ and sought to live according to Christian principles. While only God knows the full story of a soul, we take comfort in the promise of Romans 10:13: "For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."

We place him now in the hands of a gracious God, trusting in His mercy and steadfast love.

David is survived by:

• Wife: Pauline J. Grace

• Children: Christopher (Candy) Weikle, Bob (Heather) Grace, Jennifer Weikle, Billy (Heather) Grace, Teresa Weikle, Tami (Maykell) Araica, and Kelly (Ryan) Mickelson

• Grandchildren: Joshua, Trestin (Nicole), Trishelle, Josalynn (Aaron), Seth, Parker, Avery, Benjamin, Reagan, Earl D., Lukas, Sybil, and Darcy, Zach (Danielle), Mackenzie (Zac), Keagan

• Great-grandchildren: 14

• Siblings: Roger (Sue) Grace, Melvin (Barb) Grace, Tom (Vickey) Grace, Anita (John) Graham

• Stepmother: Gloria Grace

Many other cherished family members and dear friends

He was preceded in death by his father Joseph Grace, his mother Alice Grace, and his beloved brother Stephen Grace.

Service Information

A celebration of his life will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM at The Rock Church: 1003 N. Maple Street, Marysville, Ohio, 43040, where military honors will be performed by the Union County Honor Guard promptly at 6:00 pm.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM at the same location, prior to service time.

"Semper Fidelis" - Always Faithful.

These words marked his service as a Marine, a calling that demanded loyalty and endurance. Yet the greater faithfulness we cling to now is not our own, but Christ's.

The gospel reminds us that salvation rests not on a flawless record, but on a faithful Savior. As Charles Spurgeon once wrote, "We have not to save ourselves; Christ has done that already."

We entrust him now to the mercy of Jesus Christ - the One who remains faithful even when we falter, and whose grace is greater than all our sin.

We will carry David's resolve forward in the way we speak, serve, forgive, and gather. Though absent from our sight, he remains woven into the fabric of our family story.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to his widow, Pauline, in care of Ingram & Snyder Funeral Home, 975 N. Maple St., Marysville, to help with unexpected expenses.

Ingram & Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve David's family, and condolences may be expressed to them at www.IngramFuneralService.com.