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David (Dave) R. Kelker, age 98, a long-time resident of Hampstead, NC, died March 09, 2019, at New Hanover Regional Medical Center after suffering from a brief illness. He was surrounded by family and friends when he passed.
Dave was born in Harbin, China to John William Kelker and Helen Martha Reedy. He held a B.I.E. in Welding from Ohio State University-Class of 1947. Dave was an avid Buckeye fan.
Enlisting into the U. S. Marine Corp as a private, Dave went on to Officer Training School at Quantico, VA. He was discharged on December 5, 1951 with the rank of First Lieutenant having served in the Asiatic-Pacific, American Theater and World War II Victory. Dave was proud to have helped in the design of the first nuclear submarine and to have worked on various N.A.S.A. projects.
He loved playing Sudoku, Mahjong, and Crossword Puzzles. Dave had a bright and inquisitive mind and loved to share his knowledge and wit with everyone. He loved to dance, piddle in the yard, and spend time with his chihuahua, Heidi, take lazy rides and watch sports on TV.
Dave is survived by his wife of nearly 25 years, Becca and her daughter Vickie (and husband Andy), his daughter Elaine (and husband John), his son David, daughter Debra, his son John (and wife LuAnne), and his daughter Nancy, 12 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild.
David is preceded in death by his parents, his brother John (Ted) W. Kelker, Jr., his step-son Shawn C. Connor and Catherine E Kelker (Mother of his children).
Arrangements are pending.
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Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington NC 28403 910.791.9099
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