David Marker

David F. Marker, age 69, Beavercreek (formerly of Eaton), peacefully ascended to a whole new life on Good Friday, April 2, 2021. At his side was the love of his life, Tina (Christine Duggins), whom he married 28 years ago at a beautiful fall wedding at Fort St. Clair in Eaton, Ohio.

He was born in Dayton and one of nine children of the former Ralph T. and Josephine B. Marker. He was preceded in death by his younger brother and close friend, Patrick; mother-in-law, Doris Duggins; and brother-in-law, Timothy Duggins.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his beloved furbaby dog rescues, Pasha and Barnaby. Best friend and brother, Brian Marker, and sister/sis-in-law, Rebecca (Duggins) Marker, Eaton. Brother-in-law, Chris Duggins, Eaton. Father-in-law and mother-in-law, Maurice and JoAnn Duggins, Waynesfield, Ohio. Three special sons whom he loved dearly: Ryan Nolan; Kyle Nolan; and Jason Nolan all of Eaton. Grandsons: Cameron Rader-Nolan, Huber Heights, and Izaak Nolan, Vandalia. Great-grandson, Kailen Rader, Fairborn. Lifetime friend, Gary Roof, San Francisco, CA.

David was a man who will be remembered by all for his passionate heart, romance for life and Tina, brilliance, and love of people. His laughter, wit, and huge smile easily lit up any friend-filled room. No challenge was ever too large for him to master. His most interesting career path led him to graduation from Brunnerdale Seminary in Canton, Ohio, Navy seaman; executive roles at Dayton Metropolitan Housing Authority; registered nurse (cardiac/telemetry) at Miami Valley Hospital; and executive roles at Miami Valley Child Development Centers, Inc. He held two degrees from Wright State University: Bachelor of Environmental Health and Bachelor of Science in Nursing. He completed work as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.

When crack-cocaine first invaded the Dayton region in the 80s, David was instrumental in developing the nation’s first criminal trespass program for public housing properties. While at Dayton Metropolitan Housing Authority, he worked tireless days and nights beside the Dayton Police Department. David approached local courts for waivers. He received approvals to execute the program that has gone on to help protect thousands of innocent public housing families and children from the impact of illegal drugs. He received a Citizen Commendation from DPD and became an invited national presenter/trainer on the program’s mechanics and merits for housing authorities across the US.

In his role at Miami Valley Child Development Centers, Inc., David was a medical and executive advocate for impoverished children and their families. He testified before Congress several times for the betterment of programming and enhanced funding for Miami Valley’s five-county Head Start program.

David was a pilot, avid gardener, sci-fi author, wanna-be farmer, blue water and beach lover, and skilled sailor. He had a zest for travel and visited many parts of the world and US. His love for music included playing the flute and 12-string guitar with genres ranging from classical to rock.

David fought a long and valiant seven-year fight against Early Onset Alzheimer’s disease. He selflessly participated in several clinical research trials at Ohio State Medical Center in hopes to find a cure against the rare and brutal wrath of EOAD.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in David’s name to the special pets awaiting their “furever homes” at the Humane Society of Preble County, the 2021 Walk for Alzheimer’s Awareness in Dayton, or Ohio Hospice of Dayton.

Arrangements are being handled by Tobias Funeral Home, Beavercreek Chapel. A Celebration of Life is being planned by the family at a later date.