David Schott

PONTIAC—David Howard Schott, 77, of Pontiac passed away Saturday, April 25, 2020 at Accolade Healthcare in Pontiac. He was born July 2, 1942 to Howard and Mabel (Branz) Schott in Pontiac. He married Judy Drury on March 3, 1961 at the First Lutheran Church in Pontiac.
David worked as a Laborer with Klean-Lay in Leland, a driver with Creighton Allis-Chalmers Dealer in Leland and Fire Chief of Leland Fire and Ambulance. After moving in 1975, David farmed in rural Blackstone until his retirement. He then worked for Stoller International in Pontiac. David was a member of the United Methodist Church in Leland, Odell, Dwight and Pontiac where he loved to serve. He was also a member of the Moose Lodge in Pontiac, Leland Lions Club, Pontiac Lions Club and the Central States Thresherman’s Reunion. He had a passion for maintaining and operating steam engines. He rebuilt and brought back to life the famous “Sparky” for the Pontiac Lions Club. David also organized and taught an annual Steam School to teach younger “engineers.” He also loved working with/showing horses. He was in many parades.
David was so proud of his family and was always quick to brag on them any chance he could get. He was a wonderful husband, dad, grandpa, brother and friend. He will be greatly missed.
Survivors include his wife, Judy, of Pontiac; one son, Dale (Brenda) Schott, of Blackstone; three daughters: Ann (Joe) Foley, of Pontiac; Bobbi (Jerry) Curl, of Diamond and Missi (Mike) Woods, of Metamora, IL; grandchildren: Kristi (Nate) Tissiere, Tim (Stephanie) Turner, Jessica Turner (Nathon), Katelyn Dolan (Nathan), Danielle Dolan (Kyle), Dylan Marcin, Tyler Curl, Brett Curl and Steve (Megan) VandeWerken; “Grandpa’s special helper” grandson, Don Foley preceded him in death on Sept. 17, 2003; great-grandchildren: Emerson, Riley, Zoey, Audrina, Logan, Lorelai, Calleigh, Talan and Kayson.
David had 12 siblings. Surviving are Ellis Schott, of Braceville; Francis Schott, of Pontiac and Mary Mason, of Chenoa, IL. Preceding him in death were siblings: Lloyd Schott, Ivan Schott, Vera Wilson, Doris McDowell, Don Schott, Gail Schott and Roy Schott. Siblings Wayne and Shirley died in infancy.
Cremation rites will be accorded. Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, a Celebration of Life for Dave will be held at a later date. Memorials in Dave’s name may be made to First United Methodist Church-Pontiac, IL.
Family and friends may sign the guestbook at www.calvertmemorial.com.
Calvert & Martin Funeral Home in Pontiac is handling the arrangements.