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David Andrew Van Pelt, age 76 passed away on March 6, 2023. He was born on October 3, 1946 in Akron to the late Andrew and Susan Van Pelt. Dave was a 1964 graduate of Kenmore High School. He worked at the Akron Police Department retiring as a Sergeant after 34 years of service. He served with many units on the police force, contributing to numerous academy classes as Training Commander. Dave was a member of the Knights of Columbus #3410, serving as the Grand Knight.
Preceded in death by his parents; he is survived by his wife of 42 years, Patty; son Drew (Kristen); granddaughter, Ada; sister, Susan (Gordon) Cox; niece, Michelle (Carey) Walker and nephew, Christopher Cox and many extended in-laws, nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be 4-7pm Thursday, March 9 at the Hummel Funeral Home, 500 E. Exchange St. Akron, Ohio 44304. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00am Friday, March 10, at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1580 Brown St. Akron, Ohio 44301. Private family interment will take place. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson Research.
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valerie becker
March 10, 2023
oh my gosh, so sorry for the Sarge's family; had no idea he was suffering with parkinson's.....he was such a pleasure to work for and hear him laugh, which was often....
James Mousetes
March 9, 2023
I first met Sgt . VanPelt when I was in the police academy in 1992. He was an excellent instructor, well spoken, and liked by all. He was always very friendly, a very wise man, and a great role model. God bless him and his family during these challenging times.
Kipp Buehrle
March 9, 2023
i remember Dave when he was a teenager and he hug out wit my uncle Kenny, he was such a nice guy to me as a much young kid, RIP DAVE !
C Dolensky
March 9, 2023
DVP! He was my favorite instructor at the police academy. His stories were absolutely hilarious and he had the best sayings! I was happy to run into him at Luigi's during lunch after my academy days.
My condolences to Patty, Drew, family and friends. Please carry those stories and treasured moments with you and he will always be close by :)
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Mariah Kovac
March 7, 2023
Thank you for all of the countless stories, laughs and hugs, Uncle Dave. You will be forever missed and I will always cherish my memories of you. You were a wonderful man who made a huge impact in this life. Love you always. (ps: I hope they have spicy cheesy puffs in heaven.)
Love,
Your niece, Mariah (Zachardy) Kovac
Jimmy Mathews
March 7, 2023
Cuz,
You were one of the best and my close friend all the time I was with APD. We had so many memories going through all those years, even a couple of trips down my way in Licking Co. My condolences to your family, you will be remembered by all of us. Rest in Peace, Brother.
Jennifer (Lindsey) Coates
March 7, 2023
Patty & Drew I´m so very sorry. My Dad worked with David for years so I was lucky enough to get to know him too. I have such great memories of the Friday night Fish Fry with David pushing a cart around telling everyone jokes & stories. Most of them about Drew & how proud he was of him. Sending lots of love & prayers from South Carolina.
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