David Earl Takata

He was born on September 4, 1953, in Chicago, IL, the son of Earl and Loretta (Janowick) Takata.

While growing up David learned how to swim, play baseball, speed skate and play the trumpet with his father Earl as his coach and instructor. David attended St. Viator High School where he was captain and set swim team records. He also enjoyed playing in the high school band.

David earned a BS in Mechanical engineering in 1975 and his MBA degree in 1977 from U of I in Champaign, Illinois. He qualified for the University of Illinois men’s Swim Team in 1971 and competed as an NCAA athlete in relays and the 100 yard butterfly.

After graduation from the U of I David worked as a Product and Sales Manager for the following companies from 1977 through 2018: Brunswick Corporation (automated bowling) in Lake Zurich Illinois, Electrodynamics, Inc. (defense and aerospace) in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, and Kepner Products Company (precision fluid control valves) in Villa Park Illinois. His responsibilities included Application Engineering, Marketing, costing, quoting and getting orders. He also ran a part-time wedding, party and special events video recording business called On-Track-Video while employed at Kepner Products Company.

David’s Christian faith was the foundation of his life that guided him in all that he did. He found meaning in attending a weekly men’s Bible study group, where he shared his faith, deepened his understanding of Scripture, and strengthened his relationship with God. His faith was reflected in the way he lived, the love he showed others, and the values he held dear.

He was passionate about fitness and made exercise a part of his daily life. His dedication to going to the gym reflected his discipline, determination, and commitment to living life to the fullest.

Above all David took great pride in his family, who were the center of his world and greatest source of happiness. He was extremely proud of his two sons and then later found immense joy in his role as a grandfather. David’s family was his greatest legacy, and the love, guidance, and memories he leaves behind will forever be treasured by those who meant the most to him.

He was preceded in death by his father.

David is survived by his beloved sons, Gregory (Renee) Takata and Sean (Dina) Takata; caring mother, Loretta Takata; cherished grandchildren who lovingly called him g-pops and papa, Annabella, Trey, Adam, Drew, and Davis; dear siblings, Gary Takata, Jay (Sue) Takata, Jan (Tom) Rossi, Cheryl (Craig) Blaum, Christine Takata, and Jennifer Takata; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss him dearly and forever remember his kind heart.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in David’s name to Samaritan's Purse (Link: https://www.samaritanspurse.org/) or Wounded Warrior Project (Link: https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/).

A visitation will be held on Monday, October 26th, 2026, at Glueckert Funeral Home, 1520 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL, 60004, from 4:00 PM-8:00 PM. Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, October 27th, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 455 N Benton St, Palatine, IL 60067. Burial to follow at All Saints Cemetery in Des Plaines, IL.