David "Dave" Prechel

David "Dave" Prechel, 55, of Phoenix, Arizona, found eternal peace on July 19, 2012. Dave, who was raised in Coolidge, Arizona, was born on July 8, 1957, in Tucson, Arizona, to Paul John and Nancy Nowell Prechel. He graduated from Coolidge High School in 1975 where he was on the golf team, National Honor Society, Future Farmers of America Council, served as delegate to the Arizona Boys State and was voted as "Best Dressed" in his senior year. Dave went on to attend the University of Arizona from which he graduated in 1979 with an Agriculture Degree. While there, Dave was a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity where he held numerous positions including the Chapter Vice President; was inducted into the University Traditions Honorary group; and was a founding member of the Agriculture Business Club in 1978. His steadfast loyalty to UofA earned him the nickname "Wildcat Dave."

Dave returned to Coolidge and followed in his father's footsteps by farming an assortment of crops: alfalfa, grain, and watermelons but his favorite crop was cotton. He also developed part of the farm into KLC Ranch, a home development in Coolidge, with his sister Diann. While keeping his roots in Coolidge, Dave ventured into the Phoenix area where he established a home and family, having three wonderful children which he loved dearly, Kayley, Lauren and Carter.

Being a very social person, Dave expanded his friendships and found the opportunity to become involved in civic organizations. He was a member and officer of the Phoenix 20-30 Club and a valued member of the Phoenix Boys and Girls Clubs Executive Council. For the last 17 years Dave thoroughly enjoyed being an involved and a contributing member of the Phoenix Thunderbirds. Having been a Chairman of the House and Grounds Committee (the small group of members assigned to erecting the entire temporary city known as the "Phoenix Open") he annually spent weeks each year at the course assisting in the preparation and presentation of the tournament.

Dave's second home was in the White Mountains of Pinetop, AZ. He began spending every summer there as an infant, and eventually grew into almost monthly visits as an adult. Dave loved outdoor life and activities including golfing and skiing. He was constantly "on the go" rarely missing a moment to make the most out of each day. His gregarious nature, sense of humor and desire to assist whenever possible endeared Dave to all that knew him. He will be missed by those he left behind and lives were forever touched by his energy, kindness and huge heart.

He was preceded in death by his mother Nancy Prechel; his grandparents Bill and Ethel Nowell and Henry and Laura Prechel. He is survived by his three children: daughters Kayley and Lauren; son Carter Prechel; their mother Amy; father Paul Prechel and sister Diann Prechel.

A celebration of his life will be held on August 3, 2012, 10:00 a.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, 615 W. Vah Ki Inn Rd., Coolidge, AZ. The celebration will continue at the Elks Lodge in Coolidge. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the "Prechel Children's Education Fund", mailed to Douglas G. Parker, Esq., 11811 N. Tatum Blvd., Suite 4051, Phoenix, AZ 85028.

J. Warren Funeral Services, Coolidge Chapel is in charge of arrangements.