David Wayne Tohlen

Dave was practically an older brother to me through middle and high school. For a couple of years, we served together on my Dad's staff at Overland Baptist Church in St. Louis. His positive attitude was never more annoying than when we used to meet at the church at 5am to go running together. A gentler, kinder, more light-hearted and friendly person is simply not to be found. He wanted to spend his life helping people, and he did. See you soon, old friend. To Gayle and to all the Tohlen boys -- Charlie, Mark, Dennis and James -- you are, as always, in my thoughts. Saying goodbye to Dave is not easy. It's not permanent, either.

I am so sorry to hear this news, and wish I could be there to share the hugs along with the fond and funny memories. David was so full of life and humor, it will be impossible for me ever to think of him without smiling.
I don't think he had a malicious bone in his body. In my experience, he would always rather take the brunt of any mishap than to let it fall on anyone else.
I believe with all my heart that he has been gathered home to the great Source of Love from which we all come, where all is joy and peace. At the same time, his absence from this life leaves many to grieve. May all of us uphold and strengthen each other as our tribute to David, even as we entrust him wholly to the God who will never forget us.

My deepest sympathy and best wishes to Gayle, and to all the Tohlen family. You all are especially dear to me and my family.
David has left you a wonderful heritage. May our dear Lord bless you all and give you peace.

The "Tohlen Boys" were like brothers to me during my teen years and I spent a lot of time in their home.

I have a ton of memories of Dave from church and school, like the time in orchestra class at Ritenour High, when we were each required to play a solo passage before the class.

Dave was a member of the oboe section. Everyone had to stand and play an eight-bar selection from Verdi´s "Triumphal March" from "Aida". When Mr. James Eaton called Dave´s name (in that unforgettably stentorian voice), Dave calmly rose.

With his oboe reed still hanging from his lips and the class observing, he moved to the percussion section. Dave then picked up a mallet and executed a flawless solo of his oboe passage on the tubular bells. It broke up the entire class...even always-stately Mr. Eaton.

Charlie, Mark, Dennis, James - I know this is a tough time and my heart goes out to you. Gayle, you and the children are in my prayers.

May God´s peace be with you all and may this Christmas be a time of fond memories.