David Mark Pitcher

Dave was born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in the Roseland and Darien neighborhoods. He embraced his parents’ love of music at an early age and was professionally trained as a drummer. Dave joined the Salvation Army band and performed all around the country. Throughout the years, Dave played in many bands – from garage bands to club bands - but the most notable and influential was Steady Red with an incredible following of beloved fans. Later in life, Dave and his wife, Beth, had the opportunity of a lifetime to play in a band together, Roadkill Express, while living in Lake Tomahawk, Wisconsin. His pure love of music resonated throughout his life. And the beat goes on…

Upon graduation from Downers Grove South High School in 1977, Dave entered a commercial painting apprenticeship with Oosterbaan Painting and Decorating in Chicago. He painted with his heart and hands for over 40 years with several companies and for many, many family and friends. His eye for color, attention to detail and the love of his creations were amazing. He took pride in every church, hospital, school, office, brewery, personal home - wherever he painted. He was a true master of his trade and redefined the art of perfection.

Dave was the guy next door. He knew everyone, and everyone knew him. His kind, soft and gentle spirit was embraced by everyone. He was genuinely the “nice guy” who would do anything for anyone, even “strangers.” He was always there for everyone, even to a fault as he never said no. Dave’s sense of humor was beautiful and he always knew the right thing to do or say, even in the most awkward or difficult moments.

Dave and Beth married in 2002 and blended and weaved their families into one. Their love and dedication to everyone rose above all. Over the years, their grandchildren, nieces and nephews have entered a family of love, devotion and honor. His legacy lives on in all of us.

Mostly, Dave’s eyes and smiles said it all. His soul illuminated with light. God bless everyone’s life he was able to touch, for you have been blessed by a true Angel. This unfortunate interruption in life is difficult for us mortals, but we will meet again.

He leaves his loving wife, Beth (nee Hoberman); mother, Beverly Lerf; daughter, Ashley (Dan) Schrock; son, Dean Pitcher (Krista Johnson); stepson, Dirck (Julie) Weitzel; cherished grandchildren, Joshua, Brooklyn, Jonathan, Kaydence and Brennan; sisters Sue (Tom) Steen and Beth Merritt; numerous nieces and nephews and many, many close friends. He is preceded in death by his father, Richard Pitcher, and stepfather, Hansruedi Lerf.

“You belong among the wild flowers,

You belong in a boat out at sea,

Sail away, kill off the hours,

You belong somewhere you will be free”

-Tom Petty

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to http://www.foundationsofmusic.org.

A service of celebration will be held on February 24th, 2:00 PM at:

The Chicago Yacht Club

400 E. Monroe Street

Chicago, IL 60603

312-861-7777