David “Dave” Wayne Decker, of Thatcher, passed away on June 14, 2020. He was born on Aug. 30, 1957, in Bisbee, to Tommy J. and Bobbie S. Decker.
Dave graduated from Safford High School, class of 1976. He loved working with his hands and it showed. Dave was an “old school” mechanic. There was nothing that he couldn’t fix. He was known as one of the best mechanics in the Gila Valley. When he wasn’t tinkering or fixing something in his shop, he was camping, bicycling, or riding his motorcycle. He really enjoyed his motocross.
Dave was a man with a great sense of humor and was always a guaranteed “good time”. He was sentimental and caring, though he didn’t want others to see that side of him, he wanted to be “tough”. He would give you the world if you asked; that was his soft side. His children and grandchildren were his everything. He certainly loved his family.
He is survived by his son, Jared W. Decker; his daughter, Tiana Cruz (Jose Cruz); his mother-in-law, Margaret B. Schade; his brother, Michael Decker; his three grandchildren, Ilana M. Decker, Talia R. Decker, and David J. Cruz, and his pets, Hans, Heidi, Gato, and Shadow.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Tommy and Bobbie Decker, and his very best friend, Susan E. Decker.
A viewing will be held Wednesday, June 24, from 5 to 6 p.m., with services immediately following from 6 to 7 p.m. at McDougal’s Caldwell Funeral Chapel.
Arrangements are under the direction of McDougal’s Caldwell Funeral Chapel & Gila Valley Crematory. Online condolences may be extended at www.caldwellfuneralchapel.com.
