David J. "Dave" Clingerman, 65, of Elkhart, passed away on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at Elkhart General Hospital. He was born in Goshen, IN to John William Clingerman and Shirley J. (Weiland) Myers, who preceded him in death.

Dave is also preceded by father-in-law, Bill Wain. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Valerie Clingerman; son, Chad (Michelle) Clingerman; sister, Jackie (Mike) Gingerich; brother, Jerry Clingerman; sisters-in-law, Rachel Wain, Mary (Mike) Wain, and Kristine Clingerman; mother-in-law, Rose Wain; several beloved uncles, aunts, nieces, and nephews; and faithful canine companion, Rita.

A celebration of life gathering of family and friends will take place on Sunday, June 9, 2024, from 2-4 p.m. at The Gathering Place at Centre 1231, 1231 Johnson St, Elkhart, IN 46514. In accordance with Dave's wishes, cremation was chosen and will take place at Billings Funeral Home in Elkhart.

Dave was a natural caregiver and it showed in the way he would open up his heart to others in need. He worked as a qualified nursing assistant for 15 years at Greencroft Nursing and Rehabilitation in Goshen. Everyone loved him there and he embraced coworkers there as if they were his second family. Dave had the gift of making everyone feel welcome through his caring nature and his witty sense of humor.

Dave was a family man who loved his son and his many nieces and nephews. He never lost the ability to be a kid at heart and enjoyed spending time with the kids and playing various games with them. Dave was also a bit of a daredevil and enjoyed zip lining and parasailing. He was a proud member of the NRA and collected many rifles that he enjoyed shooting for sport. Dave will be dearly missed by his loving family and many friends.