David Shera Lafuze

Dave was born on April 1, 1941, in Connersville, IN, to Archibald (Archie) Monroe Lafuze and Isabel Alice Shera Lafuze. He was raised in the farming communities surrounding College Corner, Ohio, where his early years helped shape the hardworking, compassionate man he would become.

Dave attended the University of Cincinnati, graduating with his undergraduate degree in 1964. He continued his education at Southern Methodist University (SMU), where he earned a graduate degree in Mechanical Engineering. He went on to build a successful career as a mechanical engineer, working at Varel Energy Solutions for more than 20 years. His professional accomplishments also included holding a United States patent.

In 1983, Dave married Nancy Lee Reynolds, beginning a loving marriage and a life filled with family, faith, and service. He was a devoted husband, stepfather, grandfather, and great-grandfather who treasured the people closest to him.

Outside of work, Dave found joy in spending time with family, gardening, and swimming. His faith was at the center of his life, and he lived it through his actions and willingness to serve others. For more than 15 years, he volunteered with Mission Arlington and also dedicated time to prison ministry. He believed in helping those in need and never hesitated to offer a helping hand, encouragement, or kindness to someone who needed it.

Those who knew Dave will remember him as a good man with a strong faith and a generous heart. He poured his life into his family and his church. He never held back when it came to showing his love for others. He will always be remembered as an affectionate son, brother, husband, father, and Pepaw. His love, example, and unwavering faith will continue to live through the many lives he has touched.

Dave was preceded in death by his father, Archie Lafuze; his mother, Isabel Lafuze; his brother, Stephen (Stevie) Lafuze; and his stepdaughter, Pamela Jolly Saucedo.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Reynolds Lafuze; his stepdaughter, Diana Chapman; his grandchildren, Gilbert Saucedo III, Jonathan Saucedo, Krystle Robins, and Branden Lippe; his great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; his brother, Philip Lafuze; his sister-in-law, Susan (Susie) Lafuze Muterspaugh; his nieces, Lori, Lauren, and Melissa; his nephews, Doug, Michael, Andy, and Stephen; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.

Dave's life was a testament to faith, family, hard work, and service. He leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that cannot be measured by accomplishments alone, but by the countless lives he touched along the way.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved.