David "Dave" L. Sheets

David "Dave" L. Sheets, born on December 5, 1952, in Ottumwa, IA, passed away on March 20, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and an unwavering commitment to family.

Dave grew up in southeastern Iowa as the sixth member of a loving family that included four brothers and four sisters. Shortly after graduating from Cardinal High School, he traveled to Rock Island, Illinois, where he met the love of his life, Debra Segura. They started the most beautiful of love stories and were married on October 20, 1978. They remained in Rock Island where together they raised their family and created their home. Dave loved his wife with a sustained devotion from the moment they met to his last breath.

Dave's career began at Moline Consumers/Riverstone Group, but he found his true calling as a heavy machine operator after joining the International Union of Operating Engineers Local Union 150, as well as a respected cement and concrete contractor. Beyond his professional endeavors, Dave was the family handyman, always there to lend a hand with home repairs. A mechanic, landscaper, electrician, carpenter, and the embodiment of "Mr. Fix-it," he was the go-to person for all things practical and hands-on.

A friend to all, he never met a stranger and was affectionately regarded as everyone's "Dad" or "Papa." He quickly assigned a nickname to anyone he encountered and then continued to refer to them as such. He had a unique ability to connect with people, and he proudly showcased his love for his family through both words and actions. As his role of a proud Dad and Papa, he was known for never missing an opportunity to attend a game, show choir event, dance recital, music concert, band gig, or ceremony that involved his children or grandchildren. Dave made it a point to be present for every significant moment in their lives, inspiring them to embrace their many talents.

Dave was a hard worker with a strong-willed spirit and a personable disposition, well-known for his selflessness and acceptance. His ability to let go of any anger almost instantly reflected his gentle nature. His greatest pride came from the family he built and the wisdom he shared with anyone willing to learn. He mentored many colleagues and others who crossed his path, leaving behind a profound influence.

He loved to fish and camp with his family and relished the moments spent with his extended family, always striving to make people laugh. One of the many ways he accomplished this goal was by performing his famous "one-step" dance move, which never failed to impress. He also enjoyed taking his truck for drives, a calming experience, to admire nature’s beauty. The rides were shared with his loved ones, his dog, or just himself.

He is survived by his loving wife, Debra Sheets; his daughter, Desiree (Seth) Rowland; his son, Darrin (Holly) Sheets; grandchildren Ava Rowland, Cooper Rowland, Gabrielle Sheets, and Mia Sheets; siblings James "Jimmy" (Nancy) Sheets, Shirley (Mike) Courtney, Sharon Orman, Martha Ohlinger, Carol Sheets, and Michael "Mike" Sheets; stepfather Dave Pearson; mother-in-law Dolores Segura; step-mother-in-law Dona Segura; brother-in-law Robert (Ruth) Segura; sister-in-law Lisa Herrig; numerous nieces and nephews; and honorary sons Nick Feist and Anthony Voss. He is also survived by his loyal dog, Oscar.

He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Sheets; mother, Cleora "Sue" Pearson; brothers Ronald Sheets and Terry Sheets; sister-in-law Barbara Sheets; father-in-law Rudy Segura; brothers-in-law Pat Orman, Rene Segura, and Peter Herrig; and beloved dog Crosbee.

A visitation will be held at Wendt Funeral Home (1811 15th St Pl, Moline, IL) on Saturday, March 29th, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 8, 2025, from 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM at High Meadows Picnic Shelter, WestLake-Gate#4, 14910 110th Ave., Davenport, IA 52804—details in the service information.

Dave will be sorely missed, remembered in the hearts of many with his catchphrase, "I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck."

Family and friends are invited to share memories and express condolences on his Memory Wall at wendtfuneralhome.com.