I remember dave from LAX.


Enough said..................................

You were the best big brother ever. I will miss you and keep you in my heart forever. Until I see you again, shine on in heaven with mom and dad like the bright star you are for me and so many others. 

I could have never repaid you for what you have done for me and my family. The way you loved my mother and treated me and Ashley like we were your own. You will forever be in my heart, I'll never meet such a selfless man in my life. I love you. Can't wait to fly with you again in heaven.

There will never be another man like “Grandpa David.” His kind smile, encouraging words, and loving heart will live on forever. We miss you! Forever in our hearts & always on our mind. 

Orlando, I will love you forever & always.
Your Fancygirl  

I met Dave around 2012 when we started working together. His contagious positive energy always led our  projects to success. I haven't spent much time with Dave in person (of course I wish I had spent much more) as he was in MCO, I am in SFO, but every time we met we always made it count, we worked together and we laughed together.  Dave made sure my team knew he was ready to help us if or when we needed anything - he said "Michael, just tell me what you need". That knowledge was like having Dave stand by us all the time. Dave was extremely warm and personable and  leveraged his great personal relationships for the greater good at work and personally.  I am so sad about Dave's passing, about losing such a great friend.  Dave will be sorely missed, and he will remain with us in our thoughts and fond memories. My sincere condolences to Dave's loved ones, our thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time.

I'm at a lose for words, and that's a hard thing for me to say but I feel so privileged to have known you. I watched how you always saw what the future  could be for the MCO  family. I admired you leadership skills and how you brought together a great ensemble of people to achieve their best in doing an essential job in aviation.  It was hard to see you taken at such an early age. My condolences to all of your family and rest in peace Dave. 

My wedding day 2/3/2007 a day before his birthday he came all the way from Orlando to Lakewood Ca. along with others, to attend our special day! I have so many memories of my friend and favorite boss David Shotsberger! I don’t know where to begin! Not everyone had the pleasure of working for you and becoming your friend, I consider myself one of the most blessed! Thank you for always treating me as an equal, for sharing for caring and for believing in me! You have left a legacy between LAX and MCO!! Irreplaceable too many from one coast to another! I will cherish the memories and your very heartfelt last text..I too love you Dave Shotsberger you will forever be missed at Continental/United Airlines! Thank you Linda Ramsey Harrelson Shotsberger for being his caring, loving wife. You made him a very happy man the past few years, you have been his Inspiration, Angel, blessing and his comfort, may the Lord be with you and all his loved ones during this difficult time🙏🏼 Till we meet again my friend RIP Dave Shotsberger you will always be the “Big Cheese” to me.....  Best Boss and Friend EVER

Dave was one of the really, really good ones, the best of the best. He brought out the good in us. He was a friend, confidant and wasn’t afraid to correct you when you were wrong, the right way. There was and is no doubt that God has a place for him in heaven and by Gods good grace I may one day see him again.

Knowing Dave was a blessing.  He truly made this world a better place.  He smiled easily and brought out the best  people. The first time I walked through a hangar with Dave, he said hello to everyone by name, often asking how a family member was doing or how some personal project was going.  
He made time for people because he wanted to--not because he felt obligated. 
He led by example and showed us all how to live fully and try new things.
Dave, you will be missed by many! 
Linda, I am very, very sorry for your loss. 

Dave really was truly "one of the good guys".  A very thoughtful and supportive person, Dave was passionate about everything that he did, inspiring many along the way. I miss the tears of laughter as Dave would reminisce about the many wonderful stories from the past and present over dinner as our unofficial historian, often in full character.

He was a masterful leader that set the standard for many of us, always pointing to the efforts of others around him as being the reason for the teams success, there is no "I" in Shotsberger.

A dear friend, mentor and sounding board over nearly three decades.

Dave you are always in my thoughts.



Dave—- thank you, thank you, thank you, I got to know you for almost thirty years. We worked together and played together and as you would love to say “ it’s all good” well for me it was great. As I write this I have tears in my eyes because there will be ONLY one Dave Shotsberger and that void won’t be filled. As with most the first time I met you, as the Eagles would say - I got that peaceful easy feeling, you put everyone at ease and when you dug in you sure as heck knew how to get things resolved. Linda thanks for coming into Dave’s life when you did, you calmed it and gave him that sense of ease that was gone for a while! So my friend hopefully I get to see you up above, as I wrote to you a few months ago you have a positive space PS1 ticket in heaven. Take care my friend and thank you for all you’ve done for ALL of us.



Dave and Linda with 80% of the Robaina Kids. The boy he's holding  (Mackenzie) once threw a candy wrapper out of Dave's car window, when Dave sternly asked him what he would do if the cops pulled him over,  Mac  said, "I'll punch him in the nose"

Linda, you are an incredible woman. The timing of you coming into Dave’s life could not have been more perfect. Dave must have connections with God as you do also to be put on this planet together. I appreciate the happiness you brought Dave. This happiness has been passed to everyone he’s interacted with. Landry and Ashley, you have given David purpose more than one could ever imagine.  Jeannie and I are hurting right now for your loss. We pray that your grief has God’s hand on it. We pray that the pain in your hearts will subside in due time and you know it will come from our creator. Dave is walking on those Golden streets right now, heading to that well deserved Castle in Heaven.

I went to high school with Dave, even then he was devoted to racing, and he was the kind of guy you just knew was going to do good things "when he grew up".   I had  only seen him once since then, at a class reunion, and he was warm and gracious then too.  I am so sorry to hear of his passing, especially so early, but from reading the condolences, and watching the tribute,  it's clear that he was loved and respected.  I send my deepest condolences to his family and friends.

Anyone that met Dave knew he was as genuine as they get.  For me he instilled a sense of trust and value regardless of the situation.  Last summer Dave shared a picture with me that he took while flying and it hangs in my office today along with  some words he shared in a brief exchange of text messages...those words will stick with me for a very long time as they represent his strength and ability to see beyond where many times we get stuck.
 
“In the plane I forget what I’m dealing with....I know God’s got this.  We have a peaceful time each day.”   

He is at peace for sure and we all can count our blessings in having known him.

I have an emptiness in my heart with Dave moving on at such an early age.   He was truly a great leader, always looking out for the airline and his co-workers.  A team player who had your back and someone you could always trust.  I am so glad Dave was able to see the hanger dedicated in his name.  So very deserving.  Dave excelled in everything he did, from work, to racing cars and flying airplanes.  I was able to fly with Dave a few times and he even taught me how to land a tail dragger.  He loved flying in the heavens and I am sure he is looking down now with a big smile.   Truly blessed to have had Dave as a friend.


A great man, friend and colleague. A true inspiration to so many.  He taught me many things but, the most important was it was okay to be wrong. Relise it, fix it and learn from it. 
My prayers and love to Linda and Daves huge family because family is how he made everyone feel they were. He touched so many , he is already missed. 

I have such fond memories of Dave, he had such a passion for people and whether you worked with him directly or you saw him from time to time at leadership meetings and other company events, he treated you as part of the family.  Dave always had a smile on his face, appreciation in his heart and kind words for his friends and colleagues.  I always remember when I saw him he would reminisce about the LAX days and share how immensely proud he was of all we had accomplished together.  Deepest sympathies to his family, he will be missed by many.  May the memories and knowing he touched so many lives in such a positive way provide some comfort.    

Dave was instrumental in my Continental career and I will forever be grateful and remember his support.  Dave was the voice of reason who's knowledge and understanding guided so many over the course of his illustrious career. Dave is now flying, riding, racing and boating without a care in the world. RIP my friend you will be missed.  John & Sheri Kelly.

I met Dave in 1986 as he was beginning his career with Continental Airlines!! Dave became one of our kids in and out of our home and running the roads with our sons!! He was always happy and full of life!! Living it to the fullest!! We were so thrilled when he met and married Linda!! He was happy at last !! He was such a wonderful amazing man and our lives were bless because he was apart of it!! So R.I.P my very special friend!! Love always Brenda Bonaventura 

I will always be forever great full to Dave for the  opportunity he extended to me and my family to come to Orlando  and start a new chapter in my aviation career. He welcomed me with support and kindness. He was a True leader with passion for his mission. He has created a Culture and Legacy here in Orlando that is the envy of the  aviation maintenance community .  Our mission now is to continue his legacy and build on that foundation. My condolences to Linda and his family.  Rest in Peace Dave. 

I really came to know Dave well when I returned from Guam. Our first conversation was about Guam and a particular event there he helped with. Something about a DC-10. We also both loved motorcycles and talking about rides always was part of any visit. As the new senior HR Partner for Tech Ops I had many things to learn about that most interesting Division. Most of what I needed to know came from talks with him. His patience and willingness to teach have been mentioned many times already. They were a very real part of who he was. So was his passion for doing what was right and taking care of all of those who worked for and with him. We faced some difficult challenges together and that showed me the true measure of this outstanding person. I’ve told others that it is hard to imagine a world without Dave. We’ve lost someone both unique and very special. Ride Safe Dave, on this next glorious adventure.

I met David through Frank Hawley's Drag Racing School. Two unlikely people became the best of friends. Unlikely because pilots and maintenance technicians generally don't agree on anything. David and I agreed on everything. We worked well together, learned together, got depressed about our racing together, and cheered for the other person when we won rounds in racing. David and I always felt it was an honor to drive Frank's cars in racing events. We felt special. We began bracket racing together, and then Frank moved us up to running in Super Comp in the dragsters. We ran several Division 2 events, and 2 national events in Gainesville, Florida in 2015 and 2016. David went onto a semi final round in the last Division 2 race that we ran in Bristol, Tennessee. He also won a bracket racing event at Gainesville Raceway. David was a good, kind human being to everyone. While I've spoken highly of David, he always included Linda in all the events that we raced and wherever we went. They were always together. Men have few very good friends that they can count through life. Dave was one of mine. I will miss David, but his spirit and friendship are, and will be everlasting. Race towards God my friend, and fly high. I love you, David. 

I remember when Dave first came to Orlando. The negative Nelly in me thought, here we go again.  To my surprise, and a welcome relief, it turns out that Dave was different.  Dave embodied what we call core4 now as his basic mantra before it was popular, a testament to his success.  Dave was a wealth of knowledge not just with airplane related stuff but everything in between.  Dave was the consummate politician, able to diffuse hourly personnel issues and get them to sing kumbaya together.  He accepted me into his team and mentored me over the years.  You will be missed, you passed before your time but we will always remember the legacy you left behind of MCO Tech Ops.  God Bless.

We were so lucky!  When David decided he wanted to learn how to fly 20+ years ago, he chose us!  He did that as he did everything in life,  gave it 110%!   He lived life to the fullest.  He was the most thoughtful, kindhearted guy you could meet.   We were so happy for him when he met Linda and her kids, Ashley and Landry.   They dealt with his illness together in an amazing way.  Peace be with you David.  We will miss you dear friend.   Blue Skies and Tailwinds...always... 

Met Dave in March of 1985 at Continental's LaxMx hangar. He was already showing signs of his leadership. Wandered around the country for 10 years then much to my surprise, Dave came to Orlando.  He was my boss and gave me guidance in my work. Built some aircraft models for him, which he enjoyed. Watched as he created MCO into the Maintenance base it is today. He will be missed. 
May his family find peace and strength during this most difficult time.
MCOMX, his legacy...... 

Saddened to hear of Dave's passing. Always considered our time spent as members of Continental Airlines Los Angeles aircraft maintenance
as one of my career highlights. Am glad to have crossed paths with him. Solid and giving as a person & manager.  Thanks Dave. Aloha my friend,
Myles Fujimura  

It's a joy to have shared friendship with David.  Dave brought me closer to the best music on Earth by always sharing songs of artists he admired.  Steely Dan will remain at the top of his list of best favorites.  Recently he introduced me to two other songs he loved.  "Island Rain" by Mac MacAnally and "Lucky Old Sun" by Kenny Chesney, duet with Willie Nelson.  After I learned them, he graciously allowed me to come over with my guitar to sing them for him.  As always with David, his eyes were kind and so expressive and he showed great enthusiasm.  Our joined musical connection dates back years and I can say his encouragements in my musical career made a lifelong impression.  He never stopped encouraging his loved-ones.  This World is much better by far simply because David Shotsberger shared in our lives.  

Pam and I were fortunate and blessed to spend Saturdays with Dave and Linda over the past two years. We had the opportunity to build many memories and share life as it was dealt to us in spite of Dave's illness.
I was also very fortunate to have him in my life over the past 32 years where he was an awesome mentor, co-worker and friend. No words can express the gratitude I have for that.
Dave and I shared many challenges in life that were parallel with each other and worked through them as a team. His departure will leave a huge void physically but he will always have a place in my heart  and mind. 
I know we are still connected even if in different places. God Speed Dave; you did it in style and finished this race in first place. With that win, many  people around you benefited and learned from your leadership and friendship, you wouldn't have it any other way. The world has suffered a great loss, but we all know you're still in our lives watching over us from above.



My husband Bruce and I were fortunate enough to have met David and his sister Stacy through their mother, who was a close friend of mine. Oh how she loved to brag on him-her children were her pride and joy!
Sending prayers for peace and strength for his family and friends.

I had the pleasure of working with Dave when I was assigned as the QA Auditor to MCO. He truly cared about doing things right, loved his people and was the ultimate example of a true leader.  I had the upmost respect for this man and am grateful for his hospitality during my visit. I am so sorry for his passing. My prayers to his family and friends; may God grant you peace and strength during this most difficult time. 

Dave graciously took my Dad up in his Cub and flew him over our house in Clermont.  My dad still talks about it 20 years later!  
Dave also took me up one time as well and we took off and landed at several tiny airports in Central Fl. I was in the front seat and at one point he put his hands on my shoulders and said “you are flying the plane”.  He talked me through  a few minutes of pure adrenal rush!  
All of my memories of him revolve around his kindness and funny sarcastic quips. 
My condolences to his family. 

Me and my family will always be grateful to Mr. Shotsberger, he accepted me into the family he created in MCO. He was a kind and caring man, I remember when I started as a supervisor, I was running around, and he called me over and told me, a story about when he became a supervisor, he said, Mike in this industry so planes will be on time and some will be late, just do your best and treat everyone with respect. He inspired me to work hard and to care about our island in MCO. He's at peace and in no more pain with our Lord, He will always be the Big Boss for me.


Sending sympathy and prayers.  So much respect for this good man.  Dave was so full of passion and dedication.  He would always find a path - always get things done - and it was always good.  And he did everything with a twinkle in his eye and a bit of humor.  We are all better for having been a part of his life .  Rest easy, friend.

Friend, mentor, coworker and best of all one of the most caring, kindest  humans you could have ever met. Dave was trusting, firm but empowering to those of us around him. Always and I mean always there for you when need. Great listener whom was full of wisdom, laughter and sarcasm. I loved how he saw the good in people, and reminded you that there is always two sides to a story. He took me and many others under his wing,  turned us all into better people and successful leaders. I am so thankful of the opportunities he gave me and I always worked to ensure I made him proud of the risks he took for me. God did he ever take a risk with me! Love you brother! Forever in my heart....

Rest In Peace Dave.  Thank you for welcoming me in to MCO and having the faith in allowing me the opportunity to become part of the Orlando tech ops management team, although only for a short time. You will truly be missed.

Dave was such a high-energy and passionate person. When he decided to do something he was all in. 110%! And he loved to share his experience and adventures. He loved life and all that it offered.  I am a better person for having known David. I will cherish his memory. Please accept my condolences and sympathies during this time.

Condolences to Mrs shotsberger  and  family  may you  have strength thru this hard time losing a family is a hard thing  blessing and  prays  too you  and everyone.  Tony  fll gse  

Linda, I am so sorry for your loss. Praying for God’s comfort and peace to carry you in the coming days & weeks.  Love you sister 🌹🙏🏻🌺

OBITUARY

David Benjamin Shotsberger

February 4, 1961 – January 22, 2019

Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park

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