David L. Lander Sr. 1931-2025

He was born May 31, 1931, in Martins Ferry, the son of the late Richard H. Lander and Mary Klusch Lander.

David graduated from Leavittsburg High School in 1950, alongside his high school sweetheart, Carolyn. On May 31, 1952, they were married and began a journey together that lasted 65 years. Since Carolyn’s passing, David has missed her deeply every single day. We take comfort in imagining the joy of their reunion, knowing he is once again with his lifelong love and his very best friend.

After serving his country in the U.S. Army, David began his career at Packard Electric, where he worked in the inspection department for 41 years before retiring in 1991.

He was a member of the Masonic Lodge and coached Little League and Hot Stove baseball. David was an avid reader and sports fan, and, above all, he loved his family.

To his family, he was Big Dave, Dad, Papa and Grandpa. His absence leaves a space within our family that we can never fill. He lived for family moments, cheering from the sidelines of every game, showing up at every milestone in the lives of his children and many grandchildren, and at the center of every Lander family gathering.

Every Christmas Eve, we will smile when we light a fire and remember the decades of Lander Christmas picnics he ruled over. We’ll remember the car-packed road trips and vacations that turned into adventures, first with his kids, later with their families, and eventually with his grandchildren — memories that will live on for generations.

David was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carolyn, and his brother, Richard Lander.

He is survived by his daughters, Karen (Ed) Chorey of Cincinnati and Jennifer (Jose) Nogales of Braceville; his son, David (Melissa) Lander Jr. of Plymouth, Michigan; eight grandchildren, Megan, Emily, Matthew, Olivia, Alexa, Ethan, Reece and Isabella; 10 great-grandchildren; and his brother, Robert (Marti) Lander of Castleton, Virginia.

Private family services will be held.

David will be laid to rest beside his wife, Carolyn, in Crown Hill Burial Park in Vienna.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested all donations be made to the Braceville Township Auxiliary Fire Department, 800 Newton Falls Braceville Road, Newton Falls, OH 44444, in his memory.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the James Funeral Home, 8 E. Broad St., Newton Falls, OH 44444, 330-872-5440. Family and friends may view his obituary online or send condolences at www.jamesfuneralhomeinc.com.

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