David Gerald DePrey, born Friday, December 13, 1957, passed away on December 27, 2025, succumbing to cancer. He was 68 years old. David was born at Children’s Hospital in Washington, D.C., to Ann LaRue Freeman DePrey and David Joseph DePrey, both of whom preceded him in death.
David was the youngest of five children. He is survived by his siblings Jessica Warren of Hedgepath, WV; Amelia Hopkins of Denton, MD; and Stephen Freeman of Buena Vista, VA. He was preceded in death by his sister Rebecca, who passed away in childhood. He is also survived by his nephew Sam and his beloved niece Rebecca.
David’s family often said he “hit the jackpot” when he met Barbara Stoltenberg, the love of his life. They met in Brandywine, Maryland, married soon after, and welcomed two children: David Jason (D.J.) in 1980 and Amy Nicole in 1985. Barbara’s passing in 1997 changed him forever, but the passion in which he spoke of her never faded.
In 1989, the family moved to Hiawatha, Kansas, where David built many lifelong friendships. He and Barb settled into their home just outside of town, where David took pride in caring for his yard and discovered a talent for creating delicious meals without ever needing a recipe.
David worked briefly as a repo man in Maryland before finding deep pride in his career as a heavy machine operator. He was especially honored to have contributed to the construction of Highway 36 in Kansas. A life‑changing automobile accident in February 1993 left him disabled, but it never dimmed his spirit.
He had a lifelong love of motorcycles—especially Harley-Davidsons—and even owned his own parts shop for a time. He had an impressive natural ability to draw flames and was happiest when he had the chance to tape flame designs for paint jobs.
David had a deep appreciation for nature. He enjoyed hunting in his younger years, but fishing remained his greatest outdoor passion throughout his life. His collection of fishing poles was a point of pride. He also enjoyed playing dice and cards, savoring a good glass of whiskey, and listening to music, which he loved wholeheartedly.
He had a gentle soul that animals and babies were naturally drawn to. His love for animals led him to volunteer at the local humane society—a role he cherished for ten years. Being told he had to retire from volunteering broke his heart; the only thing he was more devoted to was the memory of his late wife.
David is survived by his son D.J. and grandchildren Sanciya, MaKenzie, Jalin, and Ember; and by his daughter Amy and grandchildren Kindra, Konner, and Craven. He is also survived by his honorary daughter Amanda, and honorary grandchildren Max and Carson, who held a special place in his heart.
Services planned for 11 a.m. Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha. Tony French will officiate. Cremation to follow services with private inurnment at a later date at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.
Friends may call at the funeral home Friday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. The family will meet with friends one hour prior to services Saturday.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the David DePrey Memorial Fund to be sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.
