David Merl RoBards

Funeral services for David Merl RoBards will be held on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Spencer Creek Baptist Church in Chelsea, Oklahoma. Burial will follow at Winganon Cemetery. 

David passed away on August 19, 2024, at the age of 76.

David was born on November 25, 1947, in Vinita, Oklahoma, to George and Wilma (Martin) RoBards. He grew up in Chelsea and attended Chelsea Schools, graduating with the class of 1966. During his school years, David was an athlete, playing baseball and serving as the center on the football team. Following high school, David briefly enrolled at the Oklahoma Military Academy but soon answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army.

After completing basic training, David returned home on leave to marry his high school sweetheart, Ruth Schwaesdall, who he affectionately called "Ruthie." Shortly after their wedding, David returned to duty and was sent to Vietnam. While serving, David was injured when the armored personnel carrier he was driving struck a mine. His bravery and sacrifice earned him a Purple Heart. David finished his military career at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, before he and Ruth returned home to Chelsea to begin their lives together.

David's working career spanned many years, including more than 15 years as a journeyman carpenter with Williams Construction. His talent for woodworking became particularly evident when he specialized in custom cabinetry, a skill he later showcased by crafting high-end custom cabinets for Vogue Motor Homes, and for many custom homes as well. David finished his working career as a security guard in Tulsa.

Beyond his work, David had many passions. He was an avid woodworker who loved creating beautiful pieces with his hands. He was a kind and generous man who enjoyed helping others. David was also a devout member of Spencer Creek Baptist Church, where he and Ruth were one of four founding families who helped establish the church. His love for his church and his community was evident in everything he did, but it was his deep and unwavering love for his family that truly defined him.

David was preceded in death by his parents, George and Wilma RoBards, and his children, Brandy Jo and Joshua Wyatt RoBards.

Survivors include his loving wife of many years, Ruth; his son, Jeffery RoBards, and his wife, Vickie; his grandchildren, Chrislynn and husband Aaron, Cortne, and Taylor and husband Kody; great-grandchildren, Ryley, Lacey, James, Blakeleigh, Bryson, Kynlee, Westin, Remi and Jacob; sister, Deborah Rowe, and his brother, Rickey RoBards, and his wife, Cleo, along with his favorite dogs, Charlie and Buster, and many other extended family members and friends.

David will be remembered as a loving and kind man, always willing to lend a helping hand, and someone whose love for his family and community was immense. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.