David Leslie Stanley, 69, of Galesburg, died at 6:25 p.m. Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at home.
He was born August 28, 1954, in Aledo, the son of James Edward and Ardele Ann (Retherford) Stanley. He had been married to Christine Dillin and Cheryl Pederson.
He is survived by two children, Jared (Amanda) Stanley of Galesburg and Jennifer (Anthony) Stanley of Milan; eight grandchildren, Addison Stanley, Heavenly Schafer, Natalie Schafer, Eryn Stanley, Sincere Campbell, Serenity Campbell, Sylas Campbell, and Saphira Campbell; a brother, Mark Stanley of Aledo; a sister, Janean (Brad) Ottoson of Aledo; Jennifer’s mom, Mary Hamilton, who he maintained a close relationship with; and his close friend, Max Tessier. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister and brother-in-law, Barb and Michel Daigeneault.
David graduated from Aledo High School in 1972 and went on to attend Carl Sandburg College, where he earned an associate’s degree in applied science. After college, David served in the United States Marine Corps from 1974 to 1978. After being honorably discharged, he began working for Wilson Paper Company. He went on to work for Maytag, and most recently as a CDL Truck Driver. He retired in 2022.
He was an avid reader who rarely had the T.V. on except to watch a Bears game or Caitlin Clark play. He was a proud member and sponsor of Alcoholics Anonymous, holding a 30-year sobriety coin. David owned several Harley Davidson’s over the years, but considered himself a fair weather rider.
Cremation will be accorded. A memorial graveside service with Military Honors will be 1 p.m. Saturday, August 10, 2024, at Warren County Hope Cemetery, near Alexis. Pastor Jordan Knight, the United States Marine Corps, and the Knox County Honor Guard will participate in the services. Memorial contributions in David’s name may be made to the Arbor Day Foundation. Living plants are suggested for floral gifts. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral and Cremation Service is honored to serve the family. Online condolences and memories may be shared on the funeral home’s website at www.h-p-w.com.
