David Louis Devine

David Louis Devine, born on May 20, 1956, in Algona, Iowa, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2024, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria, Illinois, surrounded by his loving wife and a circle of devoted family and friends. He was 68 years old. David was the middle child of Ray and Lavina Devine and grew up as a typical farm boy in rural Iowa. He excelled in sports during his high school years at Meservey-Thornton Consolidated Schools, earning honorable mention in football during his senior year. After high school, he pursued various educational opportunities, ultimately earning an Associate's Degree in automotive technology from Illinois Central College. His career as an automotive technician included specialized training in Springhill, Tennessee, where he honed his skills working with Saturn automobiles. In 1996, David married the love of his life, Julie Blayney Flores, and together they built a beautiful life in Peoria, Illinois. They shared nearly three decades of love, laughter, and companionship, fulfilling David's dreams of finding love and owning a home. Although they did not have children of their own, David cherished his many nieces and nephews and delighted in being a part of their lives. They include, Mindy(Curtis) Hickey of Banner,Illinois, Justin(Amanda) Gangloff of Peoria,Illinois, Gennifer(Sam)Chu of Lindenhurst,NewYork,Robby(Jennifer)Devine of Washington Crossing, Pa. Zachary Devine and Mallory Devine of Gosbem,NewYork. Chris(Ashlee) Ballard of Colorado. Brandon(Kristen) Blayney of Peoria, Illinois and Kristopher(Whitney) Blayney of Princeville Illinois. And last but certainly not least, Dave had 15 great nieces and nephews. David had a profound love for nature, often taking long walks in the woods or enjoying the serene beauty of wide-open valleys and cornfields. He was an avid fan of baseball, passionately supporting the St. Louis Cardinals, and enjoyed college football, particularly the University of Iowa Hawkeyes. A music lover at heart, his tastes spanned blues, country, folk, and rock and roll. Known for his gentle spirit, David had a unique connection with children and dogs, often referred to as a "kid magnet" despite his shyness. He and Julie shared their home with two beloved Labradors, Gerty and Gabby, who brought them unconditional love for fourteen years each. David is survived by his wife, Julie; siblings Maggi Ballard of Peoria, Illinois, Robert (Jeanne) Devine of Bostic, North Carolina, and Ronnie (Kim Lory) Devine of Gosbem, New York; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews as listed above. He was preceded in death by his younger brother, Tommy Devine, and his parents. A memorial service to honor David's life will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 3 PM at the Church of Christ Northwest in Peoria, Illinois, a date that holds special significance as it marks the anniversary of his marriage to Julie. David's legacy of love, kindness, and a deep appreciation for life will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him Todd Finnegan

David Louis Devine

May 20, 1956 - August 25, 2024