Birth date: Sep 19, 1939 Death date: Jan 4, 2024
David Robert Orbaugh, 84, of Huntersville, NC passed away Thursday, January 4, 2024 of complications from COVID-19. He was born in Indianapolis, IN and grew up in Miami, FL. Dave often described his childhood years in Miami spent Read Obituary
This is difficult to write, it is difficult to put into words the great man that Dave was. Dave paid for my university education and is the reason , I am where I am today because of Dave. Dave dedicated his life to be of service to others, he was kind , he was compassionate and a man of his word. Dave's legacy of servant leadership will live on in the lives he touched. Dave made my life better, his humility, advise and celebration of others is rare. You lived a good life and did so much. It breaks my heart that you are gone. I am struggling to write this, I am heartbroken for your loved ones and all of those you touched. May you rest in eternal peace. Your legacy, the many lives you touched positively will always live on.
I have agonized about whether what I will put in writing will do justice to the rich legacy of this good friend.
Just like you know that the camera never captures the sceneries or the moments as the eye saw them….
Dave was the first face I met when I and my young family set foot on the land of the brave that chilly night of December 8 2010 at Charlotte Douglas arrivals.
And so a friendship began. Dave( and Tonya) walked with my family during the especially trying 2011 when my health took a hit.
From one doctor’s office to another, Charlotte to Highpoint, and the Emergency, Dave left it at the point when I was admitted and got the care I badly needed.
I am still humbled by the image of Dave sitting on the floor of our humble dwelling, cross-legged assembling a table or something to help us settle while I could not lift myself from the couch.
His genuine compassion was testament to those who encountered him in need.
Dave introduced me to Kairos and the beauty of the gospel of service that he so strongly cherished and practiced. And on those long drives to Kershaw, Dave would always be the mentor that he was.
My daughters especially still cherish their first trip to see the leaves in the mountains with Dave any Tonya and the great memories of that weekend.
I know Dave is in a happy place and his great deeds speak for him into eternity.
Go well my friend, and may God whom you faithfully served look unto you with the kindest of countenance.
Rest in eternal peace.
Dave was my older brother- older by 23 years (yes Tonya and I are the same age! and we both enjoy listening to the same 70's and 80's music much to Dave's chagrin) . Before I was in school Dave was married and starting his family with his beautiful children Beth and Ken and eventually moving from Florida to North Carolina. I knew Dave was loving, kind and always thoughtful, but I didn't really know him and understand him until recently over the last ten years. I spent two wonderful Thanksgiving's with Dave and Tonya and I am so grateful for the time we had together and the sharing that we had during these two holidays. I especially enjoyed playing some crazy card game - it was so fun and it really let me see Dave's witty humor. I am so proud that Dave made his faith a priority in his life and was committed to serving those in need. His wife Tonya was definitely his soul mate and his love for her was worn on his sleeve, albeit sometimes with a mischievous grin. The night before his passing I was in the chapel praying and singing with others and I knew that we were serenading Dave's soul to God and he was at great peace. Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord and may your perpetual light shine upon him. May Dave rest in Peace.
With Love- your little sister Kathy
My first experience with David when I attended my first weekend at Kershaw Correctional about 15 years ago. I was a little nervous about the weekend and David put me at ease. He was wearing a Hawaiian shirt, a wonderful smile, and was so complimentary about whatever I had to say. David delivered authentic and compelling talks to the residents of Kershaw. He talked about the joys of his life, he started with his changed life in Christ, their special adopted daughter in Africa, and wonderful & blessing of his wife. God bless you brother.
I had the privilege to serve with David in the Kairos ministry. We will miss him but know he is in the care of our Lord. Peace be with you brother David! 🕊️️
Brother Dave and I served in Kairos Prison Ministry for number of years.
We specifically served as leaders 2014 - 2015. Dave always had a since of humor and attention to detail. His contributions at Kershaw Correctional Institution for those many years surely impacted a multitude of lives and the kingdom of God has been richly blessed because of his presence and servanthood. I and other Kairos brothers will miss Dave.
Peace be with family
Smart and handsome enough to charm one of the smartest, funniest, and most beautiful woman I know into marrying him! What a wonderful couple...33 years! Tonya you captured Dave's accomplishments and passions so perfectly. I hope you find peace and joy in daily slices. Love you much
It was a privilege to serve alongside David as part of Kairos Prison Ministry. We're thankful to have known him, and look forward to more fellowship at the renewal of all things.
Dave was kind and genuine. His compassion for others and faith was lived out in his social justice activities and relationships. Dave loved with greatness--I'm so glad I had opportunities to see the love he shared with his wife. My sincere condolences to Tonya and the rest of the family. His is a life worth celebrating.
Jacki-Lynn
