David Kelone Obituary
To view David's Celebration of Life Service live on Monday, November 7, 2022, at 11 a.m., please use the following link, https://youtu.be/XTiAJDtQpQc
DUNLAP — David Paul Kelone, 76, passed away on Sunday, October 30, 2022.
He was born on January 9, 1946, in Alexandria, La., to Paul Bascom and Oceana (Guillot) Kelone. David grew up on a cotton farm near Egg Bend, La. He married Debbie Strunk on August 4, 1973.
He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Debbie Strunk Kelone of Dunlap, Ill.; daughter, Emily (Mark) Aiman of Metamora, Ill., grandson, Conner Aiman; sister, Ticker Gravois of Cleburne, Texas; mother-in-law, Allie Lou Strunk; brother-in-law, Greg (Peggy) Strunk of Phoenix, Ariz.; and many nieces and nephews.
David attended Fifth Ward High School and graduated from Marksville High School in 1963. He attended Louisiana State University, graduating in 1968, with a degree in agricultural and mechanical engineering. David was a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity. He was ROTC trained, becoming commissioned in 1968 as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army. David was on active duty for two years, serving in Korea.
David learned to fly in 1963, and flew a variety of airplanes his whole life. He worked as a crop duster, general aviation instructor, charter and corporate pilot. He finished his flying career as a DC9 captain for Eastern Airlines.
David operated several business ventures including airport fixed base operations, truck driving school, insurance agencies and commercial real estate.
David was an avid duck and deer hunter. He loved sharing hunting with his son-in-law, Mark and his grandson, Conner. He was an animal lover, a great cook, and had a passion for restoring military mule vehicles.
David was a member of Northminster Presbyterian Church in Peoria. His quiet sustaining Christian faith carried him from this life into heaven. He was a man of few words and many loving actions. David died peacefully in his sleep while returning from a trip to Florida providing disaster relief to hurricane victims.
Cremation rites will be accorded. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, November 7, 2022, at Northminster Presbyterian Church, with Pastor Bob Jordan and Don Stuber officiating. Military honors by United States Army will follow the service at the church. Visitation will be from 9 to 10:45 a.m. Monday, prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in Morton Apostolic Christian Church Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Northminster Presbyterian Church, 8 Days of Hope, eightdaysofhope.com, or God’s Pit Crew @ https://godspitcrew.org/donate/.
Knapp-Johnson Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Morton is handling arrangements.
To view David’s video tribute or leave an online condolence for the family, visit www.knappjohnson.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Fred and Barbara Unes
November 6, 2022
Debbie and Family,
Please accept our deepest sympathies in losing David. We are shocked in hearing this news but he had been doing such unselfish deeds to help out after the storm. ..and then he didn't suffer pain, only peace.
We remember David's help in loaning us his long trailer to get the playhouse all the way from Peoria to Chicago, in multiple pieces! He was so generous and supportive of that project getting completed.
David always seemed 'jolly' to us and was so involved in many projects of one kind or another. He will be missed but we can have a smile on our faces whenever we think of him. Hugs to you.
Paul Garn
November 4, 2022
Paul Garn
November 4, 2022
Paul Garn
November 4, 2022
Dave and I crossed paths at 8 days of Hope, Serasota, Hurricane Ian tree/brush cleanup. He was such a joy to work with and really saved us much time and our backs. Amazing how he knew what to do with that skid steer with jaws to pluck trees and debris, working to get all to curbside. You are blessed with so many talents, but I truly believe God put you in Florida because you have a big heart and you care about people. We all will miss you my friend. Peace. See you on the other side. Paul Garn, Bellville, Ohio
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Vicki Johnson
November 4, 2022
I´m so sorry for your loss and that you weren´t able to see him before his death. I remember the strong handshakes between Dave and Bob, not sure who won. You´re in my thoughts and prayers and I´m there for you if you need me. You have supported me , my turn. Vicki Johnson
Linda Tullis and Joanne Bowles
November 4, 2022
Dear Debbie and family,
We send you our deepest sympathy at the loss of your beloved David. What a legacy he had of helping others! We pray that you are sustained by God's love, peace, and grace and comforted by the memories of shared times together and the love of family and friends. Linda Tullis and Joanne Bowles
Mark S Shipp
November 4, 2022
To Debbie, Emily, Mark and family. My sincere condolences. Dave was a tireless worker who gave his heart in everything he did. He will be forever missed.
Jo Ann Kinsella
November 2, 2022
Dear Debbie and family. Bob and I send our sincere sympathy for your loss. May fond memories ease your sorrow.
Sincerely,
Bob and Jo Ann Kinsella
Marilou
November 2, 2022
Marilou
November 2, 2022
Marilou
November 2, 2022
Marilou
November 2, 2022
Marilou
November 2, 2022
Saddened to hear about the passing of David. I was able to meet him when we volunteered together with Eight Days of Hope in Florida. He had a very important role in helping clear the debris & trees. He even showed me how to drive his Skid Steer, it was so fun! He talked about his grandson & how he wanted to show him all the pictures from Florida. My goodness, such a kind soul...Rest in peace David
blake woodrum
November 1, 2022
David was such a amazing guy he has a amazing heart for serving other I am honored to have had the pleasure to meet him and serve with him at eight days of hope
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