David Manville Thayer, age 87, of Dundee passed away Thursday, September 22, at Sherman Hospital in Elgin. David was born March 23, 1924 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa to the late Donald and Maud (nee Manville) Thayer. He proudly served as a First Lieutenant in the Army Air Corps during World War II and successfully led 28 B-17 missions over Europe. After returning from the service he moved to California where he met and married the love of his life, Leona "Lee" Oakes in 1949. Later that same year he joined Delta Airllines as a commercial pilot. David and Lee moved to the Chicago area, After joining Delta, and raised three children together. They eventually settled in Dundee in 1965 where they joined the First Congregational Church of Dundee and built a wonderful life rich with friends, laughter and love. David enjoyed his profession so much that he often said he never worked a day in his life–he simply loved to fly. After 35 years with Delta, David retired in 1984 and he and Lee spent most of their time at their lake home in Minnesota and cherished every moment with each other until Lee’s passing in 2004. David was an inspiration to everyone who knew him. He was an exceptional pilot and a true patriot and a role model to many. He was an absolute gentleman, gracious and humble. He was always ready with a joke and unfailingly supported his family and friends. He will be deeply missed. He is survived by his three children; Cindy (Scott) Kracen of Elgin, Rick (Chris) Thayer of Stanley, NC, and Tracey (Wilson) Mohr of St. Charles; six grandchildren; Chris (Keriann) German, Kelly (Chris) Blomer, Scott (Katie) German, David Thayer, Lauren Mohr and Spencer Mohr; two great grandchildren, Brady and Emma German; and his buddy and caregiver John Surundu. In addition to his wife, Dave was preceded in death by his parents, his step father: Larry Nelson and his sister: Barbara.

 

Memorial Funeral Services held on Tuesday, September 27, 2011