David Earl Gilchrest

David Earl Gilchrest, age 69, of Springfield, MO, was called home to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on April 10th, 2026 at Mercy Hospital in Springfield.

He was born on December 17th, 1956 in Granville, NY to William Cecil Gilchrest and MaryLou (Burch). David was raised in Hoosick Falls, NY and graduated from Hoosick Falls Central School in 1975. After high school he moved to Wyoming, attending the University of Wyoming, succeeded by working for the National Forest Service, then to Parachute and Rifle, Co. employed as a heavy equipment operator, and safety officer with Unocal & PCL Construction. David served the community of Rifle at this point in his work history as a First Responder, Fire Chief, and Police Officer.

David and his beloved wife Mary Rotzin-Gilchrest, were married on November 4th, 2000 after a ten year courtship and were relocated to several states for employment transfers during their many years and countless adventures together. He enjoyed gardening with Mary, woodworking, learning to play the guitar, photography, and was a terrific storyteller. His sense of humor and gift of encouraging and teaching others, serving community and love of family have blessed so many and will be truly missed by all that knew him.

He will be remembered for his infectious laugh and always putting others before himself. He loved everyone around him unconditionally and that spilled over into the rest of us. We are all blessed for every last minute that we spent in his presence. To show the love that David did throughout his life is something we should all strive for, though its lofty goal, he made it look so easy...

David (Pops) had many gifts, but his greatest are the ones that would allow him to touch your life in a way that changed you deep within. His laugh made even the most difficult moments better, his hugs could heal the brokenness a person was facing, and his eyes would speak love and understanding in moments where words failed.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, and siblings, William Frank Gilchrest, and Karen Sue Gilchrest and his beloved stepsons, Tommy and Darren Rotzin.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary, his son, William Robert Gilchrest & wife Teresa, his sister, Linda Mann, & many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Permanent online condolences, stories and photos may be shared at www.hhlohmeyer.com