David Richard Weitz, Sr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Fenton, Missouri, on July 27, 2026 at the age of 87.
Born on December 10, 1938, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Elmer and Dorothy (Weckermeyer) Weitz.
Dave was a quiet, humble man who never sought recognition. Instead, he earned the admiration and respect of those around him through his integrity, dependability, and genuine kindness.
After graduating from Affton High School, Dave attended Parks College of Aeronautical Technology, where he participated in ROTC, was a member of the Phi Alpha Chi fraternity, and enjoyed playing basketball. Dedicated to providing for his young family, he worked multiple jobs before co-founding Davlan Engineering in 1963. Through hard work, perseverance, and unwavering integrity, he helped build the company into a highly respected manufacturing business. One of his greatest joys was watching his son and grandsons continue the legacy he worked so hard to create.
Outside of his career, Dave found his greatest happiness in spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed fishing, bowling, Sudoku puzzles, and being outdoors. Whether sharing stories, lending a helping hand, or simply enjoying the company of those he loved, Dave made people feel valued and welcomed.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Dorothy Weitz; his sister, Suzi Weitz; and his grandson, Tyler Herbst.
Dave is survived by his devoted wife of 68 years, Loretta D. (Micke) Weitz; his daughters, Kathy (Steve) Herbst and Angie Chapin; his son, David R. Weitz, Jr. (Theresa Monteleone); his grandchildren, Tiffany (Scott) Shannon, Jamie Chapin, Samantha Chapin, Ethan Chapin, Noah Chapin, David R. Weitz III, and Michael Weitz; his great-granddaughter, Liv Shannon; and many beloved extended family members, lifelong friends, and employees whose lives he touched throughout the years.
Visitation will be held at St. Ambrose Catholic Church on The Hill on Saturday, August 15, beginning at 9:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. A private family burial will take place at Sunset Memorial Park & Mausoleum.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA), St. Louis Chapter Scholarship Fund, supporting students pursuing careers in manufacturing, https://buy.stripe.com/00w00igNbavM4RK1gmbEA01 or to St. Ambrose Forever https://stambroseforever.com/donate.
Dave will be remembered for his quiet strength, steady character, unwavering work ethic, and deep devotion to his family and faith. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the business he helped build, and the countless lives he influenced through his example of humility, generosity, and integrity.
Family and friends are invited to share stories, photographs, and condolences online at Kutis Funeral Homes.