David L Markley

David L. Markley, born on January 13, 1944, in Lawrence, Kansas, passed away peacefully at his home in Pomona, Kansas, on August 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother who touched the lives of many with his kindness and unwavering spirit.

David was a graduate of Appanoose High School, class of 1962. He proudly served in the United States Army for two years as a Vietnam veteran, shaping his character and instilling in him the values of dedication and service. Following his military service, David devoted thirty-five years to delivering the Sunday Kansas City Star newspaper, and he worked for forty years at the Lawrence Paper Company before retiring in 2009.

Growing up in rural Franklin County, David was raised by a single mother, which fostered a deep sense of appreciation for family. On March 31, 1973, he was united in marriage to Sandra "Sandy" Burgoon in Ottawa, Kansas. Their partnership was a testament to love and commitment until her passing on March 27, 2023.

David is survived by his son Ray Poe (Rachele) of Ottawa, Kansas; daughter Julie Wolff (Mark) of Pomona, Kansas; grandchildren, Shalisha Downing (Ryan), Trayton Poe, Jordan Markley (Kurstin), and Jaxon Wolff, along with his precious great-grandchildren, Maxwell Banks and Myles Poe. In addition to his immediate family, David is survived by his brother Jacob Markley and sister Wilda Robbins.

Along with his beloved wife Sandy, David is preceded in death by son Derek L. Markley; his cherished parents Jess and Opal (Lee) Markley; grandparents George W. and Isadora (Flory) Markley, and Floyd Lee Sr. and Ethel (Gregg) Lee; brother George Markley; half-brothers Leo Boyke and Richard Markley; and half-sisters Evelyn Musick and Doris Lanksbery.

In his leisure time, David found joy in working outdoors, landscaping, and playing games like Blitz and Aggravation with family. He enjoyed listening to country music and taking on word search puzzles, pursuits that reflected his love for simple pleasures and quality time with those he cherished.

David's life was marked by his devotion to family, service to his country, and a passion for the small things that brought him joy. His memory will be carried on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Cremation is planned with a celebration of life to be held at a later date.

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