David Mark Thies

David Mark Thies, born May 22, 1963, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026, after a year-long battle with pancreatic cancer. David left us as a man of strength whose legacy will be treasured by all those fortunate enough to have known him.

David grew up on Santa Cruz Avenue and was a 1981 graduate of Wilbur Wright High School. He spent much of his life enjoying his hobby farm, affectionately known as "The Ranch." He was a meat-and-potatoes kind of guy who loved Chevy trucks, hunting, gardening, target shooting, and relaxing while he "flew the hammock" with a glass of milk and a slice of Boston cream pie. An avid sports fan, you could always find him listening to the Dayton Flyers, Cincinnati Reds, or the Ohio State Buckeyes on the radio. As our family survivalist, we could always be confident that David would be prepared for any situation. He taught his grandchildren the art of survival by showing them how to grow potatoes and start a fire with flint and steel. He also loved watching the night sky with his grandchildren.

David retired from GE TDI after more than 15 years of service. While employed there, he made many friends he affectionately called his "Homies." However, Derek was a Homie who became much more—a son he never had, sharing many of David's interests and holding a special place in his heart.

He was preceded in death by his father, Norman Thies; his brothers, Gary and Tim Thies; and his parents-in-law, Jim and Pat Lamance.

David will be deeply missed by his loving daughter, Brittany Haynes, and her husband, Brad; his cherished granddaughters, Falynn "Sunflower" and Eliette "Baby Blue"; and his mother, Mary Thies. He is also survived by his siblings, Sharon (Jim) Pytel, Mick Thies, Bob (Carol) Thies, and Patty (Mike) Leach. We would be remiss not to mention Derek (Cassandra) Stewart. David's memory will also be fondly held by his extended family and friends.

Family and friends are invited to honor David's life on Monday, July 20, 2026. Visitation will be held at Newcomer Funeral Home, North Dayton, 4104 Needmore Road, Dayton, OH 45424, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 1:30 p.m. Burial will take place immediately following the service at Dayton Memorial Park, 8135 N. Dixie Drive, Dayton, OH 45414.