David Hallenbeck was a quiet gentle man with a great sense of humor who loved God and loved his family. David,74, of Pataskala, Ohio, died on January 11, 2024, at Mt. Carmel East Hospital after a short unexpected medical illness.

He was born in Lawrence, Kansas in 1949. David has always had fond memories of 4-H, square dancing, and growing up with four siblings. He attended a small school (19 students in his graduating class) in rural Kansas. Afterwards, David attended Emporia State University and after graduation went on to Central Baptist Seminary. He was a pastor for many years, then went on to be a grief counselor and funeral director. Regardless of what he was doing, he always had a pastor’s heart.

As the Patriarch of the family, he was the rock that everyone could count on. David enjoyed taking care of his 11 acres which included mowing (his time to pray). He is working toward finishing his book manuscript “Give Them the Flowers Now”. He was the #1 cheerleader for all of the people he loved and tried to attend all of grandchildren’s sporting events. The last few years he was the prayer team coordinator for Operation Christmas Child.

David is survived by his wife and love of his life, Virginia. They celebrated 20 years of marriage in December. He is also survived by his daughters, Melissa Hallenbeck, Amy Fitzwater (Randy), and Christine Dunn; and five grandchildren, Andrew (Angel), Aubrey, Cyrus, Sophia, and Primrose; and one great-granddaughter, Raya. Also survived by his three sisters, Julie Henderson (Bob), Marcia McFarlane (Ted), and Jennifer Laming; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

David is preceded in his death by Earl(father) and Camella Hallenbeck (mother), John Hallenbeck (brother) and Nick Hallenbeck (son), as well as several grandparents and aunts/uncles.

Calling hours are at Brucker and Kishler Funeral Home in Newark, Ohio, on Monday, January 15, 2024, from 9:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. with the funeral service to follow from 11:00 a.m.–Noon. David was a huge Kansas University Jayhawk fan so we are asking all in attendance to wear blue or red (Jayhawk colors). Traditional funeral attire is acceptable as well.

*All obituaries are submitted by family and friends of the deceased.

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