John David "Dave" Love Jr.

John David Love, Jr., 25, of Elkhart, passed away on February 12, 2026. Born on April 28, 2000, in Elkhart, he was the cherished son of John David Love and Bobbie Pressler. From the very beginning, John's life was filled with love, laughter, and a spirit that could not be contained.

Affectionately known as "Dave," he was a bright, unforgettable presence in every room he entered. He was funny in a way that lifted heavy hearts, loving in a way that felt safe and steady, and thoughtful in ways both big and small. He had a caring and selfless nature that made people feel important, valued, and deeply appreciated. Outgoing and optimistic, he carried a rambunctious energy that kept life exciting - he simply could not sit still for long. Being busy, going places, making memories - that was how he lived.

David thought of others before himself in everything he did. If someone needed help, he was already there. If someone was hurting, he was the first to offer comfort. If he saw someone struggling, even a stranger, he would give what he had - sometimes even money from his own pocket - simply because helping others felt natural to him. He believed kindness was something you lived out loud. He never yelled, never held grudges, never allowed anger to define him. Instead, he led with patience, gentleness, and respect.

Family was the heartbeat of David's life. His love for his mother was unwavering, and he carried immense pride in being her son. He treasured his time with siblings, aunts, grandfather, nieces, nephews, and extended family. Whether he was going places with his aunt, laughing with his siblings, or spending time surrounded by loved ones, those were the moments that mattered most. He often said he would always be with his family no matter what - words that now echo with both sorrow and comfort.

Above all, David's greatest joy in life was being a father. His children - Ailani, Ayeli, Ailiana, and Genevieve - were the center of his love and happiness. They were his pride, his purpose, and his greatest blessing. He was hands-on, attentive, and present. He delighted in the simplest moments: lifting his little sister onto his shoulders, hearing their laughter ring out, holding family members close after a long day. Watching his children smile brought him pure joy. He was the kind of father who showed up, who stayed involved, who made sure his children knew every single day that they were loved beyond measure.

David's faith was a cornerstone of his life. He loved his church deeply and found peace in worship and fellowship. Attending church services and participating in his men's Bible group strengthened his spirit and grounded him. Reading the Bible, listening to music that moved his heart, and growing in his relationship with God brought him comfort and clarity. Church was not just a place he went - it was where he found peace. His faith shaped how he treated others, how he faced hardships, and how he carried himself with quiet strength.

Even during times of illness and personal struggle, David held himself together for those he loved. He did not want others to worry. He carried his burdens with courage and determination, shielding his family from the weight of what he endured. His strength was not loud - it was steady, faithful, and resilient. Independent and determined, he faced life head-on, always striving to keep moving forward.

David thoroughly enjoyed cooking and found happiness in preparing meals for those he loved. For him, food was another way of showing care. He loved music, loved being on the go, loved experiencing life fully. There was always something to do, somewhere to go, someone to check on. Truly, one could write an entire book about his life, his stories, his laughter, and the countless ways he touched others - and still it would not feel like enough.

If David could speak to us today, he would likely say, "Don't cry for me… I lived my life. Be happy that you knew me." He wanted to be remembered not with endless sorrow, but with gratitude - for the laughter shared, the memories made, and the love given. He lived fully. He loved deeply. And he left an imprint on hearts that will never fade.

Though his time here was far too short, David's life was rich with meaning. He taught us about strength without anger, love without limits, and faith without wavering. We love you, David. Thank you for the laughter, the lessons, the memories, and the love you gave so freely. Your love meant the world to us - and it always will.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, along with several brothers and sisters who welcomed him home.

He leaves behind a family who will forever cherish his memory: his loving mother and his father; his siblings Joshua Pressler, John Pressler, and Brailynn Pressler; his aunts Stacey (Ramon) Johnson, Bettie "Aunt Jojo" Pressler, Amanda Macias, Timothy Pressler (U), and Diane "TT" Robinson; his grandfather Richard Pressler; his beloved fiancée, Priscila Ortiz; and his treasured daughters, Ailani, Ayeli, Ailiana, and Genevieve. His family; Antyune Pressler "Big Brother," Tymara (Terell) Pratcher, Benjamin Roby, Audrie Pressler, Aaxus Pressler, Ramon Johnson, Jordan and Addison Macias, Joslynn , Alaina, Abby and Sara Pressler; He also leaves behind devoted mentors; Chris Martin and an extensive family and many dear friends whose lives are forever better because they knew him.

A gathering to honor and celebrate John's life will be held at Chapel Hill Funeral Home, 10776 McKinley Hwy., Osceola, IN 46561, on Friday, February 20, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with a funeral service immediately following. Services will conclude with burial at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.

To leave a message for the family, please go to ChapelHillMemorial.com

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