In Memory of David Mathis

Lloyd David “Dave” Mathis, of Wilburton, OK, passed away Saturday, November 4th of natural causes.

Dave was born July 19th, 1947, in Ravia, OK to parents LG Mathis and Mary Francis (Nelms) Mathis. He left school early to enlist with the U.S. Army at the age of 16, where he was stationed in Germany until he was honorably discharged in 1966. After the Army, Dave moved to Big Spring, TX to work in the oilfield. In 1971 he began his career as a Sprinkler Fitter. The sprinkler trade afforded him the opportunity to travel throughout the U.S. on different projects. He enjoyed telling stories of the people he met in the various towns he worked in along the way. In 1987 he was initiated into the US Local 669 Union for Sprinkler Fitters. He was a proud member of UA Local 669, even after his retirement in 2008.

He reveled in everything related to the outdoors. Hunting, fishing, gardening, Jeeping and all of that in between. He was an excellent chef and enjoyed feeding others. From canning his home-grown vegetables to cooking at family reunions, you would find Dave in the middle of it all.

Dave is survived by his son, David Bickford of Tulsa, OK. His daughter, Shontelle Volkl, of Tahlequah, OK. Brother Wayne Mathis and wife Billie of Wilburton. Brother Tim Hamilton and wife Sandy of Panola, OK. Nieces Monica Mathis, Veronicah Harris, Shannon Cowen, Brittany Pulchney, Paige O’Hern and Abby Harding. Nephews Kevin Mathis, Bubba Mathis, Lance Mathis, Rocky Makovy, Preston Sennett and Tim “Taji” Hamilton II. Grandchildren Katie, David, Tyler and Chrissi.

He was preceded in death by his parents LG Mathis and Fran Hamilton. Brothers Ronnie Mathis and Lynn Mathis. Sister-in-law Karen Mathis. Nephews Dustin Mathis and Lane Mathis.

Dave will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and the numerous acquaintances he met throughout his 76 years. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 16th, at Waldrop Funeral Home in Wilburton, OK. Honorary Pallbearers comprise his nephews, great nephews, and grandchildren.