David Marr

David Marr, 87, of East Moline, went to his new home in heaven on Friday, April 14, 2023.His family believes he was welcomed with “well done, my good and faithful servant.”

David was born in southern Missouri to Barrett and Dovie Marr. He spent his early years learning about Jesus, the value of working hard, and the enjoyment of playing even harder.His family moved to Chicago Heights, Illinois, in search of better work, and it was there he discovered his love for basketball and golf. As a boy, his high-pitched voice gave him the nickname, “Squeaky,” which remained with him well beyond his years as a basketball star at Bloom High School. Squeak took his love of the game to Culver Stockton College in Canton, Missouri, where he broke the school’s scoring records and held them for decades. He was eventually inducted into the CSC Hall of Fame. It was also here that he met Patricia Donovan.

He married Patty in 1958 and began teaching and coaching at Macon High School.After starting a family, they moved to East Moline in 1962 and worked at United Township High School until retiring in the 90’s. There he taught Physical Education and Behind-the-Wheel driving, and he earned two Master’s degrees along the way. But his passion for 30 years at UTHS was coaching basketball, where he was able to touch the lives of countless student-athletes, many of them becoming lifelong friends.  He was called “Coach” even in his final days.

In 1972, Dave and Patt bought 20 acres of wooded land, drew up the plans for a home with a lake, and began the work of creating their own little paradise at the end of Lake Marr Lane. When not working, you could find Dave fishing, golfing, or watching his beloved Fighting Illini. His most valuable time was spent serving the Lord. He served in various churches as a Sunday School Teacher, Prayer Meeting Leader, Choir Member, Usher, Deacon, Elder and Board Member. Praise and worship were a large part of his life, even singing “It Is Well With My Soul” with his son and daughter the day before he died.

David was preceeded in death by his precious wife of 64 years. He is survived by his daughter, J Marr, and son, Dane (Carla) Marr; granddaughters, Taylar (Jordan) Stewart and Kendra Marr; grandsons, Matt (Amy) Ward and Scott (Cassie) Ward; and, great-grandchildren, Zoe, Katie and Jaxon.

While a private memorial service will be held with the immediate family, Dave would want everyone who knew him to believe in Jesus as their Savior so they could spend eternity together. He believed worshiping and serving the Lord was the reason for living and a person’s greatest joy.

Memories may be shared at www.esterdahl.com