David Coke

David Gilpatrick Coke Jr., 77, of Rockford died July 23, 2024. Born May 26, 1947 in Wichita, KS; son of David Gilpatrick and Lucille (Ballard) Coke Sr. Graduate of Hampton Dubose Academy in FL. Dave obtained his Bachelor's Degree in Biology from Asbury College and his Master's of Divinity Degree from Asbury Theological Seminary in Willmore, KY. United in marriage to Paula Middleton on December 26, 1969 in Memphis, TN. Dave had a warm, welcoming personality and was truly a "Jack of All Trades". He enjoyed household projects, fixing cars, and giving his time and talent to those in his circle. Dave was raised in Dixon, Illinois and attended Grand Detour Union Church as a child. He later attended Chapelwood Community Church and served as Pastor of Living Faith Church in Rockton, IL. Dave was a lifelong learner who surrounded himself with the sermons, writings, and teachings of great Evangelists. He was personal friends with Gordon Olson and Harry Conn, renowned Bible scholars. Dave lived out his faith each day; emulating the life of his Savior, Jesus Christ. There was no conversation that Dave would not bring God into. He preached every chance he could. In his younger years, he worked at Warner Brake and Electric, later retiring from Clinton Electronics after 36 years of dedicated service. In his retirement, Dave opened Denali's Pizza, with his family in the former Colonial Village Mall. A devoted following of people loved his pizza, garlic knots, and cheesecake over the years. Survived by his wife, Paula; children, Joshua (Megan) Coke, Jeremy (Sarah) Coke, Jonathan Coke and also grandchildren, Caleb, Ben, Ryley (Olivia), Josiah (Annalene), Isaac, Anna, Birkey, Mae, great-grandchildren, Lincoln, Reid; sister, Linda (Mike) Cain; niece, Marissa Cain; special friends, Duke Riseling and Pastor Dean Harvey. Preceded in death by his parents and daughter Johannah Coke. Dave's family is grateful to the medical team at Beloit Memorial Hospital ICU for their loving, compassionate care. Visitation Friday, July 26, 2024 from 5 pm to 7 pm at Grace Funeral & Cremation Services; 4301 N. Main St. Rockford. Additional visitation on Saturday, July 27, 2024 from 10 am to 10:45 am at the funeral home, followed by a funeral service at 11 am. Tom Lukashow will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Dave's memory may be made to Paula Coke. Burial is at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Share a memory or condolence at www.graceFH.com.

David Coke

May 26, 1947 - July 23, 2024