David Allen Ezell
December 13, 1955 – July 8, 2026
David “Dave” Allen Ezell, age 70, of Troy, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Anderson Hospital in Maryville, Illinois.
Born on Dec. 13, 1955, in Granite City, Illinois, Dave was the beloved son of the late Howard “Buster” and Jerry (née Johannigmier) Ezell.
On July 8, 2006, Dave married the love of his life, Dawn Suedmeyer, in Nashville, Illinois. Their marriage was built on love, laughter and unwavering devotion, and together they created countless cherished memories over the past 20 years.
In his younger years, Dave worked as a furnace operator at Granite City Steel, where he was known for his strong work ethic and dedication. Outside of work, he embraced life with enthusiasm and enjoyed the simple things that brought him happiness. He was a devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan who rarely missed a game, loved riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, treasured his beloved Yorkies and could often be found listening to classic rock, classic country or his favorite, The Beatles.
Dave had an infectious sense of humor and a smile that could brighten any room. He loved to laugh, make others laugh and never missed an opportunity to enjoy time with family and friends. While he appreciated life’s many pleasures, nothing meant more to him than his family. His greatest joy came from spoiling his children, step-grandchildren, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart. The love he shared, the memories he created and the kindness he showed will remain with those who knew him forever.
In addition to his parents, Dave was preceded in death by his brothers, Douglas Ezell and Dan Ezell; and his father-in-laws, Gerald Suedmeyer and Howard Morgan.
He is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Dawn Ezell of Troy, Illinois; his children, Jason (Kiley) Ezell-Lanahan of Flowery Branch, Georgia, and Jessica (Sean) Fryman of Peoria, Illinois; his stepchildren, Shawn Kitowski of Nashville, Illinois, Eric (Alexandra) Kitowski of Chandler, Arizona, and Jessica Pate of Nashville, Illinois; his brother, Drew (Eileen) Ezell; his sister, Diana (Lloyd) Durham, both of Edwardsville, Illinois; his mother-in-law, Judith Suedmeyer-Morgan; his treasured grandchildren, Walker, Miller, Addi, Grant, and Patience (Steve); his adored great-grandchildren, Malachi, Quinlynn, and Quiora; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members and countless friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.
Dave’s legacy is one of laughter, loyalty, generosity and unconditional love. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
A private, family visitation will be held from 8 to 9 a.m on Monday, July 13, 2026. A public visitation celebrating Dave’s life will be held from 9 until 10 a.m. on Monday, July 13, 2026, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Troy, Illinois. Funeral services will begin at 10 a.m. with Rev. Albert Collver III officiating. Graveside services will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Nashville, Illinois.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, St. Paul Lutheran Church in Troy or Trinity Lutheran Church in Nashville.
Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.irwinchapel.com.
