It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of David Lee Townsend. David passed away March 4, 2024 in Oxford, Kansas. He was born October 13, 1961 in Emporia, Kansas to Arthur and Estelline Townsend. David was the third born of six children and is survived by his mother, Estelline, brothers, Rick Townsend (Elaine) of Derby, Kansas, and Scott Townsend of Caldwell, Kansas,00 sisters, Wanda Ingram of Belle Plaine, Kansas, Ginger LeCounte (Kevin) of Caldwell, Kansas and Teresa McClendon (Rex) of Cunningham, Kansas. David is also survived by a son, Matthew. He leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, and friends.
Much of David's childhood was spent living in the country near Renfrow, Oklahoma with his many siblings as his primary playmates. Much fun was had exploring the fields, ponds, and pastures when the freedom of summertime would allow. Eventually, the family moved into town in Caldwell and the neighborhood on South Market Street was flourishing with families with boys his age to engage in orneriness. Bryan and Brad Brown, Bob Cink, and Wayne Reeder, to name a few. In school, David was known for his mischievous tendencies and liked to liven things up when he could. He proudly graduated with the Class of 1979.
David loved rock music and was quite fond of "The House of the Rising Sun" by The Animals, which was evident as many nights, while at grade school age, he could be heard singing it to himself at bedtime. As he matured, he had great appreciation for ZZ Top, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Guns and Roses, and most rock bands that were popular in the 70's and 80's.
David's true calling, though, was to spend time outdoors, particularly fishing. He could often be found on the banks of the Chikaskia River, Fall Creek, Bluff Creek Dam and Drury Dam. David's great pride was in noodling for catfish. He loved to share tales of massive fish being pulled from the holes along the river banks, using only his bare hands, and he had the scars to prove it!
David worked as an over the road truck driver as well as a transport driver for the railroad but he spent the last seven years working as an arborist in Oklahoma and California before sustaining an injury that disabled him from continuing. It was during treatment for this injury that he received his cancer diagnosis. Though his time was short following this revelation, he requested and received comfort and attention from his family for the duration of his days. David had many good traits and many bad traits, as we all have, but he owned the choices he made and was his own man, directing his journey as he saw fit. We can all respect him for that. He was and is treasured by his family and friends. We love you David.
Following cremation, graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, March 22, 2024 at the Caldwell City Cemetery, Caldwell, Kansas with Pastor Larry Scarth officiating.
Memorials may be made to Rivercross Hospice, 800 N Main St. STE 203. Winfield, KS 67156, and sent in care of the mortuary.
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