Dave Chalker

Funeral service for Dave Chalker, 103, of the Shady Grove Community in Nacogdoches County, will be held at 2:00pm on Thursday, May 25, 2023 at Shady Grove Baptist Church with Bro. John Withem officiating.  Interment will follow at Shady Grove Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 5-7pm on Wednesday, May 24, 2023 at Laird Funeral Home.

Mr. Chalker passed away on Monday, May 22, 2023 in Nacogdoches.  He was born on June 22, 1919 in Nacogdoches County,

Dave Chalker spent a remarkable 103 years on earth before he entered his heavenly home, just 30 days prior to his 104th birthday.  His years allowed him to see and do things that most folks can only read about.  He learned trades that are no longer in existence; he was taught survival skills and how to live off the land; he knew the ins and outs of country living and truly enjoyed deer hunting and running his hunting dogs.  His immeasurable experiences taught him more than any book ever could.  Dave was an awe-inspiring storyteller and loved people.  He had a vast amount of knowledge and life skills that he never missed the opportunity to spread to those who would listen.  He saw things invented like the lawn mower, microwave, phones, television, electric power tools, airplanes, the world of computers, vaccines and was even around to witness the invention of sliced bread.  He lived without so much, survived the great depression and many other hard times but ultimately had more than most would understand.  Dave was the true epitome of a man.  He grew up in a generation that taught morals and ethics.  He took care of his family and was always available to help a friend or neighbor.  He formed his life around the astounding love he had for Jesus Christ but he was not simply a believer, he was a dedicated member of God’s Army and spread His word in each passing day.  His life was full….full of family, friends, memories, love and laughter but also had remnants of pain and hardships.  Dave never allowed these times to define him.  He never panicked about anything and stood tall and strong through every single moment of his life.  3 years ago, he had to say goodbye to the love of his life and the woman who completed him.  He and Marie were married in 1940 and his 80 years with her by his side were immeasurable.  Their daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren were fortunate enough to have 2 wonderful people as the role models for them to have great lives.  Dave always put his family first, only behind Christ, and was happiest when they were all surrounding him.  He loved his little spot of heaven in Shady Grove, where he had been for more than 75 years.  He loved working the land while on his tractor or being outside doing most anything and had a sweet tooth for homemade ice cream (hand cranked only).  Dave filled the lives of those around him with hope, joy and a promise of a better life someday with his Savior. He was a lifelong member of Shady Grove Baptist Church and a Masonic brother for almost 75 years.

Dave is survived by his daughters, Shirley Madden and Diane Heaberlin; grandchildren, Gena Heflin Craig & husband Casey, Hillary Heaberlin Parrish and Scott Heaberlin & wife, Courntey; great grandchildren, Brandon & fiancé, Amanda, Tayler & husband Chris, Harlee, Willson, Katie and Abby, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Dave is preceded in death by his best friend and wife of 80 years, Marie Chalker; his parents; son-in-law, David Heaberlin and siblings, Alvin Chalker, Irene Hudson, Opal Hudson, John B. Chalker, Robbie Kerr and Herman Chalker.

Serving as pallbearers will be Willson Simms, Scott Heaberlin, Steve Phillips, Charles Phillips, Gene Phillips and Robert Phillips.  Honorary pallbearers are Jerry Chalker and Larry Chalker.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Dave's memory to one of the following:

Shriner's Childrens Hospital at www.shrinerschildrens.org

Shady Grove Baptist Church (Building Fund) at 2548 FM 2112, Nacogdoches, Texas 75961

or Shady Grove Cemetery at 288 Wilson Loop, Nacogdoches, Texas 75961

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