David “Dave” Whitaker, 85, of Eureka died March 14, 2026. Mr. Whitaker became a volunteer firefighter in Valley Park at the age of 16, which led to a career with the Fenton Fire District lasting until he retired in 1995. He was a member of the Missouri Mules alongside fellow firefighters. He enjoyed boating, fishing, riding his motorcycle on day trips, working with his model trains and embracing new technology like flying his drones. In earlier years, he coached his son’s baseball team with the Valley Park Athletic Association. He also loved Corvettes, owning three throughout the years. Most of all, he loved spending time with family and friends. Born Nov. 15, 1940, in St. Louis, he was the son of the late Pearl (Lindsey) and Cecil Whitaker.
He is survived by his wife: Betty (Weber) Whitaker; three children: Robby (Ed) Politte, Steve (Julye) Bowen and David (Christine) Bowen; nine grandchildren: Spencer Whitaker, Shayna Hayes, Shelby Whitaker, Ryan Whitaker, Brady Politte, Bailey Politte, Stephanie Bowen, Matthew Bowen and Lauren Bowen; eight great-grandchildren; a daughter-in-law: Tracy Whitaker; numerous nieces, nephews and in-laws; and many other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by two sons: Rockey Whitaker and Ricky Whitaker; and a sister: Bonnie Quick.
Services will be private. Burial will be in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Cedar Hill. Memorials may be made to BackStoppers at backstoppers.org/donate/. Arrangements are under the direction of Chapel Hill Mortuary in Cedar Hill.