David E. Krocker

David E. Krocker, known to many as Big Dave and Papa Dave, died Monday, March 12, 2007 at Union Hospital in Dover at the age of 64.Born August 9, 1942 at his family home in New Philadelphia, he was the son of the late John Krocker and Marcella (Fairman) Krocker Gintz.After completing his formal education at Sacred Heart and New Philadelphia High School, he honorably served his country in the United States Army. Then, he joined the work force, retiring from Reeves Steel in 1999 after 33 years of devoted service to them.His love for his wife, his two children, and his grandsons was apparent to all that surrounded him. Papa Dave loved his grandsons and spent numerous hours enjoying their presence. Many great memories were also made at Tappan Lake where Dave spent the summers fishing and boating with his family.He also loved the Ohio sports teams. Whether the Cleveland Indians, the Cleveland Browns, or the Ohio State Buckeyes were supporting a winning or loosing season, he always was a loyal fan. Most importantly was his deep devotion to his wife, the former Cecelia “Cyl” Brown. He was always her quiet supporter whether it was cooking in the kitchen or assisting with a Hospice activity. Cyl and Dave celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on September 17, 2006. They were married in New Philadelphia at Sacred Heart Church.Dave will be deeply missed by his wife Cyl, and their children, Michelle Krocker and her partner, Kate Raymond, both of Fairlawn and his son and daughter-in-law, David and Carey Krocker of Bolivar; his dear grandsons, Alex and Carson Krocker; his sisters, Jackie “Tootsie” (Ralph) Labus of New Philadelphia and Mary Lou (Chuck) Wiltse of Idaho; his best friend and father-in-law, Cecil Brown of Uhrichsville; sister-in-law, Dorothy “Dode” Krocker; step-father, James Gintz of New Philadelphia; and his brother-in-law, Rick Brown of Uhrichsville.In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, John “Sonny” Krocker, his brother-in-law, Skip Brown, and his mother-in-law, Emilena Brown.Visitation will be held in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home at New Philadelphia on Wednesday, March 14 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral celebrating Dave’s life will be held in the Chapel at Linn-Hert-Geib on Thursday beginning at 6:00 p.m. with Rev. Glenn Shedlock officiating. In keeping with Dave’s wishes, cremation will take place following the service.In memory of Dave and his devoted support of the organization, please direct memorial contributions to Hospice of Tuscarawas County, 201 W. 3rd St., Dover, OH 44622.