David M. Van De Voort

David M. Van De Voort, 69, of Naperville, IL, formerly of Columbus, OH, passed away unexpectedly on June 27, 2024. He was born on September 1, 1954, in Washington, Iowa to Everett Van De Voort and Vera Eunice nee Cannaday.
David was the loving husband of Patricia A. Meinert, whom he married on April 23, 1988, in Columbus, OH. He was the proud father of Michael David (Chloe) Van De Voort and a dedicated brother to Jerry (Shelley) Van De Voort, Debi (Charles) Mink, Andy (Debra) Van De Voort, Nancy (Sam) Cryder, and MGySgt (Ret) Gregory (LtCol (Ret) Binnie) Van De Voort. David also leaves behind a number of nieces, nephews, and cherished friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Vera, his niece Kyrstin Van De Voort, and best friend Jack Whitley.
David spent his early years in various rural communities across Iowa and Illinois due to his father's profession as a superintendent. He attended Dwight High School in Dwight, IL, and graduated from Plainfield High School in 1972. He earned bachelor's degrees in both Speech Communication and Psychology from Illinois State University, later pursuing a master's degree in Psychology and Statistics from The Ohio State University. He also completed extensive coursework towards a Doctorate in Business Statistics at OSU.
Beginning his human resources career at Nationwide Insurance in Columbus, where he met his beloved wife Patricia, David later became a Compensation Consultant at Marsh McLennan, which eventually led him back to Chicagoland. He concluded his professional career at Buck Consulting, retiring in 2017 after over 35 years of service to the profession.
David was a larger-than-life presence who approached every endeavor with unmatched enthusiasm. His genuine interest in people made him adept at forging deep connections across a wide spectrum of interests and professions, from actors and artists to accountants, brewers, and ranchers. His insightful understanding of human nature served him well during his extensive travels both domestically and abroad.
At home, David delighted in his garden, exploring both classic and contemporary films (He especially loved westerns such as Tombstone and comedies like Animal House) and honing his skill in crafting spirits, notably creating the acclaimed Cheese Cave Dave's Whey Spirit at Seven Acre Dairy in Paoli, WI. He also loved attending live performances.
Whether it be a local community show starring a niece, nephew or sibling, all the way up to the Chicago Symphony or shows on Broadway. He was on the Board of Directors for Victory Gardens Theatre in Chicago for several years and assisted in taking one of their original productions to New York City for its Off-Broadway premier. He also enjoyed performing himself. He was a much better actor than he ever admitted, but he thoroughly enjoyed getting to perform in cemetery walks in Springfield, on Zoom with his son, or playing Santa (or his beloved Sinterklaas) for the children of his nieces and nephews.
David's greatest joy was his family. He cherished gatherings with his siblings and their families during holidays and celebrations, often extending his circle of family to include close friends, in-laws, and spouses. Above all, his deepest love was reserved for his wife Pat and son Myke, who brought him immeasurable happiness and provided the foundation from which he radiated love and joy to others.
David Van De Voort will be remembered for his boundless enthusiasm, infectious laughter, and unwavering devotion to his loved ones. His legacy of joy and genuine connection will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer's Association or the Illinois State University School of Theatre, Dance, and Film in David's name would be greatly appreciated.
A Visitation will be held on July 10, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Friedrich Jones Funeral Home, 44 S. Mill Street, Naperville, IL 60540, the service will be held the next day on July 11, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the Funeral Home. Interment will be private.