Earl David DeGonia

Earl David DeGonia, a beloved brother, father and grandpa, departed this life on February 25, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on October 5, 1950, in Pond Creek, Missouri, Earl lived a life full of purpose, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community. 

Earl, proudly served in the United States Army, where he spent time in Germany during the Vietnam War. After fulfilling his duty to his country, he transitioned to a long and rewarding career, dedicating 28 years to the federal government in Defense Mapping. Earl’s passion for service extended beyond his military and professional life; as a member of the Desloge VFW Post 2426, he not only served as a Trustee but also nurtured bonds with fellow veterans, sharing stories and camaraderie. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, William “Bill” and Viola “Beckemeyer” DeGonia; siblings, Marie Glore and husband Ed, Albert DeGonia and wife Marylou, Virgil DeGonia and wife Mabel, Dorothy Landers and husband Eddie, Arthur DeGonia, Luther DeGonia, Leslie Edward DeGonia and wife Flora, and Rosalee DeGonia; and brother-in-law, Alvie Allen.

 Outside of work and service, Earl found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Whether it was casting a line while fishing, dancing with friends, or tinkering in his garage, Earl embraced the outdoors wholeheartedly. Many will fondly remember him mowing lawns as a side job after retirement, a testament to his hardworking spirit and love for staying occupied. He had a gift for making friends wherever he went, and his kind-hearted nature ensured that he lent a helping hand to anyone in need.

 Earl leaves behind a legacy of love and camaraderie, survived by his three sons: David Lyn DeGonia and wife Dana, Douglas Michael DeGonia and Derek Richard DeGonia and wife Chelle, Steve DeClue that Earl loved and treated as his own. Mother of his children and friend Cathy DiBello and husband Pat. He was a devoted father who instilled values of kindness, determination, and community in his children. Proud Tall Pa-Pa to his 12 grandchildren; Michelle Burleyson, Dakota DeGonia and wife Heather, Dalton Stephens, Corinne DeGonia, Kailee Stephens, Stephanie DeGonia, Issac DeGonia, Madisen DeGonia, Brayden DeGonia, Bristol DeGonia, Bryson DeGonia and Elliot Boyd; along with his eight great grandchildren, Tyler Burleyson, Alexis Burleyson, Jacen Burleyson, Kamden Carlin, Lyliann DeGonia, Kinsley Varns, Hudson DeGonia and Christopher Stephens; three sisters, Ruthann Allen, Betty Lou Creech and husband Jerry and Ann Lawrence; one brother, Robert Lyn DeGonia; along with several nieces, nephews and friends that will dearly miss him.

 Visitation will be held at C.Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Bonne Terre, on Friday February 28, 2025 from 5:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. There will be a VFW service on Friday, February 28, 2025 at 7:30 P.M. Visitation will resume Saturday, March 1, 2025 from 9:00 A.M. until service time of 10:30 A.M. with Pastor Larry DeGonia officiating. Burial will follow at New Diggins Cemetery in Mineral Point Missouri, with military honors. 

Family would like to express a thank you to Missouri Baptist Hospital and their staff for the care they gave Dave while he was there and also to the VFW Post 2426 for the service they do and have done in the community.