Wilcox Sr., David Paul

David Paul Wilcox Sr., 72, of Martelle, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012, in Bushnell, Fla., from a period of deteriorating health with diabetes and a heart condition. Memorial services will be held at a later date at Martelle Christian Church. His body will be cremated.

Survivors include his wife, Lucille E. Wilcox; a son, David Paul Wilcox Jr. and wife Malinda of Martelle; two daughters, Debra L. Ludwig and husband Lance of Stratton, Colo., and Donna L. Mcbride and husband Mark of Crystal, Minn.; brothers, Roy Glosser, Stan Wilcox, John Wilcox, Dean Caple and Terry Huston; sister, Ann Roberts; and three grandchildren, David Paul Wilcox III, Catherine Ann Wilcox and Hunter Mcbride.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Sue Ford.

Dave was born April 22, 1939, in Fayette County, Iowa. The family moved to Evergreen Park, Ill., where he graduated from high school in 1957. Dave met his wife, Lucille Tanner, and they married Feb. 28, 1959. After living in Evergreen Park for two years, Dave and Lucille moved to Drakesville, Iowa and farmed for the next three years. They then moved to Martelle and Dave started working as a welder for Iowa Manufacturing in Cedar Rapids. After 10 years at Iowa Manufacturing, the entrepreneur bug bit him, and he left to start Wilcox Welding in Martelle.

Ever since, Dave has had success doing things his way. He started restoring antique cars in 1968 and adored the nostalgic era being brought back to life in recent years. He had many interests, which included history, music, machinery and mechanics. His mind was always analyzing or problem-solving the next project on his list. Dave enjoyed traveling, working with his hands and enjoying his projects.

He has touched the lives of many people and will be missed.

Published in The Gazette Jan. 20, 2012