David G. McNelly

David G. McNelly peacefully went to live with the Lord on December 31, 2020. He was born in Bainbridge, PA to Lee and Dorothy (Gerstmyer) McNelly on December 17, 1939.

David married Barbara (Kreager) McNelly on March 20, 1964 at Grace Lutheran Church, Fremont, OH, where he was a life-long member. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years Barbara, children Greg (Jennifer) McNelly of Des Plaines, IL, Wendy (Steve Michel) McNelly of Fremont, Jenelle (Steven) Thurn of Perrysburg, grandchildren Jason Carmel, Morgan Cooper, Grace Thurn, Raegan Thurn, and great grandchild Kash Carmel.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister Gayle McNelly and brother Stanley McNelly.

David graduated from Fremont Ross High School in 1957. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree, a Master in Education degree, and an Education Specialist degree from Bowling Green State University. Dave was an educator for 33 years serving as teacher and principal at Helena School in Gibsonburg, teacher and principal at several schools for 25 years in the Fremont School System, principal at Shoemaker School in Bellevue, and administrator for the Lakota School System. Dave then went into business for 11 years as owner-operator of McNelly Allstate Insurance in Fremont.

After 46 years in the workforce, he enjoyed wintering in Florida. He was an avid boater on Lake Erie and member of Port Clinton Yacht Club. He was a fan of the Cleveland Browns, Cleveland Indians, Ohio State Buckeyes, and a longtime supporter of Fremont Ross athletics.

David volunteered with many organizations throughout his adult life. He was a Big Brother, Sandusky County chapter American Cancer Society board member, Boy Scout committee chairperson, Grace Lutheran Church council and committee member, past president of the Fremont Shrine Club, and 32nd degree Mason and member of Brainerd Lodge. In addition, he served as former treasurer of Moose Lodge #1286 and was a social member of the VFW and Eagles Lodge.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Auxter Funeral Homes. A memorial service will be planned at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made in David’s memory to Grace Lutheran Church in Fremont, Peace Community Church in Fort Myers, FL, or Dorothy Kern Cancer Center in Fremont. 

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