David VanLaningham

DAVID VANLANINGHAM

NEW HARMONY, INDIANA

David VanLaningham 79, a devoted husband, father, and friend to all who knew him, passed away on February 11, 2026, at Gulf Coast Medical Center in Ft Myers, Florida, leaving behind a legacy of generosity, quiet strength, and unwavering love.

David was born on April 24, 1946, in Terre Haute, Indiana, to James and Martha (Moon) VanLaningham. David graduated from Indiana State Lab School and Vincennes University. He was the beloved husband of Carlene VanLaningham, with whom he shared 55 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and service. They enjoyed traveling the world and dancing through life. Their partnership was a true testament to commitment and enduring love. He was a proud and dedicated father to his three adopted sons: Ryan, Robert, and Jim, whom he gave his whole heart to from the very beginning. David never believed that family was defined by biology, but by love and he poured everything he had into raising his boys. He was their teacher, protector, encourager, and constant example of integrity and hard work. David's values of perseverance and kindness were carried throughout his life.

Professionally, David worked for many years in a laboratory, testing plastics for General Electric. He was exceptionally intelligent, meticulous, and deeply respected for his knowledge. Yet, those who knew him best would say his greatest talent wasn't just in the lab, it was in his hands and mind. David could do just about anything, from household repairs, designing and building furniture, to playing cards with friends. He approached every challenge with patience and quiet confidence. If something was broken, people knew to call David.

A veteran of the US Air Force, David proudly served his country during the Vietnam Era and was a member of the New Harmony American Legion post 370 for many years. Later in life, his service continued on as a member of the Kiwanis Club. David believed strongly in service to his community and from 1998 to 2026 he was chairman of the Kiwanis apple cider booth at the Kunstfest. He gave generously of his time and energy, always willing to step in where help was needed. His spirit of giving extended far beyond formal service, he was the kind of man who would drop everything to help a neighbor, a friend, or even a stranger. David was also a long-time member of Johnson United Methodist Church in New Harmony, where his faith guided his actions and shaped his life. He lived his beliefs daily through compassion, humility, and steadfast love for others. Those who knew David will remember his sharp mind, his steady hands, his quick wit and his enormous heart. He was a man who gave everything he had to everyone he ever knew, never asking for recognition on and never expecting anything in return.

David's generosity, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to his family will remain his lasting legacy.

He will be missed by his friends in Southern Indiana, North Fort Myers and all whose lives were made better by simply knowing him.

David is survived by his wife: Carlene (Anderson) VanLaningham; his children: Ryan (Donnie); Robert and Jim; brother: Dale Vanlaningham (Jeanette); sister: Diane Leaman (Gary); sisters-in-law, Kathy and Tammy Anderson. Chosen grandchildren: Hope Blankenberger (Kevin), Frank VII and Faith Peterlin.

David was preceded in death by his parents; mother and father-in-law: Carl and Helen (Wilkinson) Anderson and a brother-in-law: Fred Anderson.

A service of remembrance will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Johnson United Methodist Church, PO Box 515. New Harmony, IN 47631 or Maple Hill Cemetery, PO Box 340, New Harmony, IN 47631.