James D. Sitzes

James D. Sitzes “Dave”, 55, of Logansport, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, September 8, 2025.

Born on August 7, 1970, in Kokomo, he was the son of James E. and Martha M. (Austin) Sitzes. Dave grew up with a love for music, proudly playing drums at the Carroll High School, where he graduated in 1988, his performance of “Normandy Beach” remained one of his proudest memories. Even as a teenager, Dave carried a strong work ethic working for his dad at Jim Sitzes Construction, LLC, and at McDonald’s in Frankfort during high school.

On July 12, 2008, Dave married the love of his life, Kimberly Newton, at Faith United Methodist Church in Kokomo. Together they built a life filled with faith, laughter, and love.

Dave later followed his calling into healthcare, graduating from McKinley School of Nursing and becoming a licensed LPN. He gave more than 20 years of compassionate care through his work at Monticello Healthcare, IBP, Arbor Rehab at Memorial Hospital, and Logansport State Hospital in the Isaac Ray unit, before being medically retired in 2015.

Most importantly, Dave was a saved child of God and a devoted, longtime member of Life Gate Church. His faith guided every part of his life. He shared his ministry by praying for others, giving away Bibles, and feeding the hungry. He also brought joy through music, playing conga drums and bongos with the Life Gate Praise and Worship Team.

Dave was most proud of his role as a father and “Papaw.” Time with his daughters and grandchildren filled his life with purpose and joy. He cherished gathering with family, listening to stories from older generations, and creating memories that will be carried forward.

A man of many passions, Dave loved guitars and music of all kinds…Christian, bluegrass, folk, and more. He was happiest traveling to his favorite places like the Smoky Mountains and the beach. He never missed a chance to light fireworks on the Fourth of July, his favorite holiday. He enjoyed flea markets and antiques, history, Revolutionary War reenactments, fishing trips in Minnesota with his dad and Uncle Bill, golfing, and sprint car races. Dave’s curiosity and zest for life made him unforgettable to all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Kimberly Sitzes; his parents, Jim and Martha Sitzes; daughters, Carrie (Dakota) Veach of Logansport and Journee M. Green of O’ Fallon, Illinois; grandchildren, Allie Hasch of Logansport, Remington Schoen, and AvaGrace Schoen of O’ Fallon, Illinois; sister, Jennifer (Jason) Allen of Delphi; special brother, Andrew Hill of Elyria, Ohio; mother-in-law, Carolyn Newton of Kokomo; sister-in-law, Leesa (Michael) Hedger of Kokomo; brother-in-laws, Mark Newton of Omaha, NE, Gregg (Wendy) Newton of Hayfork, CA, Brian Newton of Kansas City, KS, and Mike (Angie) Newton of Kokomo; his loyal cat, Autumn; and many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews who adored him.

Dave was welcomed into Heaven by his father-in-law, Gene Newton, and his grandparents, Willard “Jim” and Charlene Sitzes, and Henry and Anna Austin.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Life Gate Church in Logansport with Pastor Bob Gray officiating. Friends and family may visit from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Emmaus Food Pantry in Logansport. Guests are also welcome to bring canned goods to the service for donation.

You may sign the guestbook and share online condolences at www.gundrumcares.com