David L. “Dave” Davis passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Jan. 25, 2023.

Dave was a loving husband, father, grandfather and son. He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara (Alderson); his son, Jake (Gretchen); his daughter, Jenny; his grandchildren, Tucker, Emmy and Izzy; his mother, Mary Anna Davis; his sister, Lynn (Greg) Pierce; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Verne.

Dave was born in Mercer and graduated from Mercer High School in 1964.

In 1961, Dave earned his Eagle Scout badge and was a member of the Boy Scouts Order of the Arrow Indian Dance Team. Dave gained the nickname “mayor” after he was elected mayor of Mercer, the youngest mayor ever in the history of the United States at that point in time.

Dave graduated from Edinboro University in 1968. Shortly after graduating, Dave met the love of his life, Barb, and after an incredibly long six-week courtship they wed in 1968, and spent the next 54 years on adventures together.

Dave chose teaching as a career and taught history at Commodore Perry High School until 1983. Always a hard worker, Dave was a partner in Drip and Drop painting during the summers while teaching.

Dave served proudly as an artilleryman in the Pennsylvania National Guard until 1982.

In 1983, he found a new calling and began a successful career as a State Farm Insurance agent in Butler, until he retired in 2014. Dave made many new friends during his time as an agent. He also earned his certified life underwriter designation and many company awards.

During his retirement, Dave enjoyed losing money at casinos, traveling, and spending time with family and old friends at the lake house in Chautauqua, N.Y., and on Amelia Island in Florida.

As a history buff, he enjoyed reading about and touring Civil War battlefields. Dave was an avid musky fisherman, and woodworker, having created many beautiful pieces of furniture and fantastic lies about the size of the fish he caught. Dave at one time boasted the unofficial Guinness Book record for the largest amount of useless fishing lures and woodworking tools.

Dave had a quick, dry wit, and an infectious smile and could always be counted on for a great zinger. He will be deeply missed by those fortunate enough to have known and loved him.

DAVIS — Per his wishes, there will be no public viewing for David L. “Dave” Davis, who died Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023.

A celebration of life will be held at a future time for family and friends.

Arrangements are by CUNNINGHAM FUNERAL HOME, 144 S. Pitt St., Mercer.

Visit www.cunninghamfuneralhomeinc.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.