Abraham Lincoln once famously stated,
“In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years.”
David Charles Leavell, born on April 8, 1951, and peacefully departed on November 18, 2023.
David was born as the youngest child of Pete and Goldys Leavell on April the 8th, 1951 in Twelve Mile Indiana. He pursued his education at Caston High School and successfully completed his studies as a proud member of the class of 1969. After graduating, he furthered his academic journey at Western New Mexico University in Silver City, New Mexico. Equipped with knowledge and skills, David embarked on his professional career by joining Diamond Automation, where he excelled in the role of selling chicken equipment. It was during this time that he had the pleasure of encountering his beloved wife, Patricia Leavell. Their affectionate bond led them to unite in marriage on December 20, 1974, after a brief engagement.
Following his marriage in 1974, David embarked on a journey of travel and work with Diamond Automation until the arrival of his son Shane in 1977. Subsequently, David and Pat briefly assumed ownership of the Fulton lumberyard, allowing him to devote more time to his family. Soon after, he ventured into the poultry industry alongside his esteemed companion Ray Blanchet, founding Midwest Agriculture. After several years there, David yearned for the presence of his children at home, prompting him to establish Leavell Construction, catering to the needs of the local community. In the early 90s, he joined Farmer Automatic of America as the National Sales Manager, commencing a remarkable career spanning over 25 years. Recently retired from Farmer Automatic, David has once again embarked on an independent endeavor, providing services to his cherished long-term customers through Leavell Sales. In this new chapter, he has enlisted the assistance of his trusted and dedicated assistant, Patty Johnson, who will ensure the continuity and success of this enterprise into the future.
A devoted husband, caring father, doting grandfather, trusted mentor, and most importantly, our dearest friend, Dad exhibited a profound appreciation for life and embraced it to the fullest extent. His warm and welcoming nature allowed him to effortlessly connect with others, always extending a helping hand whenever needed.
For countless years, he selflessly dedicated his time and efforts to the local Horse and Pony club, graciously volunteering and making a positive impact within the community. In his professional endeavors, he consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, guided by unwavering integrity and a steadfast moral compass. Not only did he raise his own children with unwavering love and care, but he also opened his heart and home to others, bringing them into the family with unconditional love and treating them as if they were his own.
Dad's influence on our life has been immeasurable. From imparting lessons in independence and the art of working smart, to teaching us the importance of forging meaningful connections and empathizing with others, his wisdom has shaped the people we are today. While acknowledging his imperfections, for no one is flawless, he possessed the admirable ability to recognize and address his shortcomings, continuously striving for personal growth. His smile and infectious laughter will ring in our ears for years to come.
To his grandchildren, he was an affectionate and cherished grandfather. Despite physical limitations in recent years, he never ceased to shower them with unconditional love, imparting his grandfatherly wisdom and counsel. Although our earthly encounters may cease, his enduring presence will reside within our heart indefinitely. Nevertheless, we cannot help but yearn for our almost daily conversations and the comfort of knowing he’s there if we hop in the car or pick up the phone.
David is preceded in death by his parents Pete and Goldys Leavell; his sister Betty Leavell; his brother Don Leavell; and his father-in-law Richard Eckert.
He is survived by his loving wife Patricia; son Shane Leavell and wife Darla of Kentucky; daughter Kim Leavell Crawford and husband Brian of Winamac; daughter Heather Leavell of Fort Wayne; brother Mitchell Leavell and wife Dorothy of Jackson, Mississippi; 7 grandchildren: Xander Leavell, Liam Leavell, Keisha Troutman and husband Ryan, Bryant Brown, Mackenzie Leavell, Adrian Leavell, Ethan Sanders; 4 great grandchildren: Easton Troutman, Wyatt Troutman, Lucas Troutman, Eli Temple; mother-in-law Darlene Eckert; sister-in-law Donna Phelan; and brother-in-law David Yeakley.
The departure of our beloved father signifies not a farewell, but rather a perpetual bond that transcends time itself. His legacy will forever resonate, a testament to a life well-lived and the profound impact he made upon those fortunate enough to have known him.
A celebration of the life of David C. Leavell will be at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester.
Friends may visit with the family from 11-2 on Wednesday in the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Fulton Co, Horse & Pony % Keisha Troutman PO Box 162, Fulton, IN 46931
