David L. Ness

David L. Ness, 82, of Cadiz, Ohio, passed away after a brief illness on Friday February 23, 2024, at the VA Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was born on March 5, 1941, in Bemidji, Minnesota to the late Clifford and Esther Nelson Ness. 

David grew up on a farm in rural Northern Minnesota where he learned many of his mechanical skills that he continued to expand on for the rest of his life. He attended a one room country school from first to eighth grade and then went on to attend Bemidji High School for grades 9-12. David Joined the United States Air Force in 1961 and served in the States and for several years in Japan as a hydraulic specialist. He resided in several states including extensive periods in South Carolina and Florida until he relocated to Cadiz, Ohio. 

After discharge from the Air Force, David trained to become licensed as a private pilot and then went on to get his license for commercial twin engine planes. He also owned and operated a semi-truck and trailer rig for cross country trucking. His training as a mechanic allowed him to take apart and rebuild airplane engines, trucks, cars, and small engines. Dave had an ear for music. He played the trombone in the marching band in high school and after his military service he formed a band, the Velvetones, playing both guitar and steel guitar in many gigs. He enjoyed small engine repair and fishing. He was a corporate pilot, he loved to fly. He will be missed by many.

David was preceded in death in addition to his parents by a brother, Donald Ness. 

He is survived by his best friend and wife of 34 years, Connie Ness of Cadiz, Ohio; children, Mark Ness of Weyers Cave, Virginia and Dena (Dave) Sopshier of Sumter, South Carolina; granddaughter, Amber Ness of Weyers Cave, Virginia; siblings, Janet (Joe) Nervick of The Villages, FL/Bemidji, MN, Gerald Ness of Bemidji, Minnesota, Arthur (Debra) Ness of Bemidji, Minnesota; and niece Ciera (Rob) Hull of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

A private service will be held at the convenience of the family. The family is being assisted by Clark-Kirkland-Barr Funeral Home. 

The memorial guestbook may be signed at clark-kirkland-barr.com.