David W. “Dave” VanSlander, 77, a resident of Pinecrest Manor and formerly of Daguscahonda, passed away on Sunday, March 31, 2024 with his loving family by his side following a lengthy illness.

He was born on November 5, 1946 in St. Marys, a son of the late William and Bernetta Haberberger VanSlander.

Dave was a graduate of Elk County Catholic High School and went on to serve in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He worked at Quality Components for many years and then retired from Arete. Dave enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, and playing golf. He also enjoyed taking trips to camp and riding atv’s. He could often be found watching Gunsmoke or a Steelers game. Never sitting still, he was always building or tinkering with something, earning his title of “Mr. Gadget”. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing softball with his friends, who knew him better as “Catfish”.
Dave loved nothing more than spending time with his family and forever had a joke to tell, always putting a smile on the faces of his family and friends.

He is survived by his four daughters; Lisa (Dave) Starr of Kersey, Tami (Dave) Vakiener of Ridgway, Kari (Jeff) Smith of Ridgway, and Rhonda (Chuck) Krobot of Daguscahonda, and by one son; DJ (Cindy) VanSlander of St. Marys; and by his 13 beloved grandchildren, including his little Andie-pie; and by 11 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by 2 brothers; Bill VanSlander, Jr. of Force, and John VanSlander of Rasselas, and by numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his best friend and former wife; Sandra VanSlander of Daguscahonda.

In addition to his parents, Dave was preceded in death by a brother; William B. VanSlander Jr., and by a sister; Sue Ellen VanSlander.

A Memorial Service for David W. VanSlander will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home, 151 N. Michael Street, St. Marys, PA 15857.

Burial will be in Parklawn Memorial Gardens.

Family and friends will be received at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home on Saturday, April 6, 2024, from 9:30 AM until the time of the service.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Alzheimers Association.

Lynch-Green Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 151 N. Michael Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.lynchgreeenfuneralhome.com