David H. Osburn

David H. Osburn, Jr died February 21, 2026 after a lengthy illness which never stopped him from being totally involved with his favorite activities.

David was born May 26, 1943 to Ruth Gamble Osburn and David H. Osburn, Jr. Raised in Gates Mills, Ohio, solely by his mother, David attended Hawken School, Orange High School and eventually the University of Michigan.

Early in life, it became evident that he was gifted musically and he began piano lessons at age 4. Music was a guiding theme of his life. A wonderful, expressive speaking voice led him to several broadcasting and engineering jobs at various radio stations in Cleveland, Elyria, Novelty and Columbus, Ohio where he hosted classical and popular music formats.

Eventually, he went into business for himself when he opened Record King which later became Music Adventures in Middleburg Heights, Ohio for 40 years. He taught students of all ages, many of whom went into successful careers in music.

David’s musical interests also included a talent for ringing church bells and he was the resident Carilloneur at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church for over 35 years.

During the Covid 19 pandemic, Dave performed weekly concerts at St. Paul’s because audiences were able to safely distance outside and enjoy live music. Devoted to the art of the carillon, he served on the board of Friends of the McGaffin Carillon, promoting and maintaining the bells for the enjoyment of University Circle in years to come.

Dave was an electronics hobbiest and had the ability to identify problems and find solutions when it came to repairing almost anything. His family and friends often called on him when they ran into a problem. This ability became particularly handy when he and his wife, Mary, purchased a home in Port Clyde, Maine in 1996. During the 25 years they owned this property, Dave managed the long-distance security system and managed many repairs.

Dave is survived by his wife, Mary, a daughter and 3 grandchildren. 

A memorial service will take place Saturday, May 2 at 11:00AM at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 2747 Fairmount Boulevard, Cleveland Heights, Ohio 44106. 

For those wishing to make a donation in David’s memory, please consider Friends of the McGaffin Carillon, Church of the Covenant, Cleveland, Ohio 44106 or Karel Paukert Music Fund at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.