David Gene Books

David was born February 23, 1940, in Springfield, IL, the son of Fredrick and Anna (Tilinski) Books. David married Bonnie Scribner on July 7, 1962, in Pana, IL.

David was a lifelong resident of the Springfield and Rochester communities, having lived in the same home since the day he was born. A proud graduate of Lanphier High School, Class of 1958, he went on to further his education at both DeVry Technical Institute and Iowa State University in Ames, IA. A devoted member of Immanuel Lutheran Church for over 50 years, David was also active in his community through organizations such as the Lake Press Club, the Elks Club, and the American Legion.

He honorably served six years in the Army National Guard. David dedicated more than three decades of his professional life to the Illinois Department of Transportation, where he worked as a Core Drill Supervisor before retiring. Outside of work, David found joy in many hobbies. He had a lifelong passion for golf, beginning at the age of eight, and a love for growing roses, woodworking, and gardening. He also cherished time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A committed coach, David, shared his love of sports by coaching basketball for nine years and Little League baseball for ten.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fredrick and Anna; granddaughter, Gabriella; and brother, Larry Books.

David is survived by his wife, Bonnie of Rochester; sons, David “Bryan” (Holly) Books of Austin, TX, Derek “Shawn” (Nikki) Books of Taylorville, IL, and Eric Jason (companion; Cindy Maes) Books of St. Louis, MO; six grandchildren, Emily (Chad) Garner, Adam, Courtney, Nathan, Ashley, and Mackenzie Books; two great-grandchildren, Lorelei and Lainey; and sister in law, Cheryl Books.

Visitation & Funeral Ceremony: The family will receive friends at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 17, 2025, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 2750 E. Sangamon Ave., Springfield, IL 62702, until the time of the Ceremony at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Adam Rouse officiating.

Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery, 1441 Monument Ave., Springfield, IL 62702.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Shriners Hospital for Children, or Immanuel Lutheran Church.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th Street, Springfield, IL 62703.