David Weaver Fessel, age 81, of Mattoon, IL died peacefully on February 25, 2025, at Willow Breeze Hospice House

David was born on March 30, 1945, to the late John Ed and Dorothy Fessel. He married Marilyn on November 15, 1972, in Charleston, IL; she survives and resides in Mattoon, IL. He is also survived by his two sons, Craig Fessel of Belleville, IL, Aaron Fessel and wife Renee of Grosse Pointe Farms, MI; four grandchildren: Dr. Cody Gass and wife Megan, Will, Lyla and Hayes Fessel; and five great-grandchildren: Kai, Vivianne, Veda, Miah and Callahan Gass.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Richard “Dick” Fessel.

After graduating from Richland County High School in Olney, IL., David attended the University of Texas and North Texas State University studying music. He was very involved in the jazz scene, playing saxophone in clubs there and in Albuquerque, NM. While in college he taught himself to play piano and that instrument was his favorite throughout his life. A talented singer, he directed community and church choir in his hometown of Olney, Illinois as well as performing with a professional vocal quartet that gave concerts in the area.

While playing music in the Mattoon area, he met his wife of fifty-two years, Marilyn. They forged an instant bond over their mutual love of music.

They were members of "The Travelers", a local pop cover band in the 1970's and early 80's. Later he was a stay-at-home dad, a house flipper, landlord, and an accompanist and set builder in support of Marilyn in her teaching career. Always self-taught he rebuilt, restrung, and tuned a grand piano. But above all, he was devoted to his family.

A private graveside service in his honor will be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Dodge Grove Cemetery in Mattoon, IL. Reverend Ron Dickinson will officiate. Mitchell-Jerdan Funeral Home, 1200 Wabash Avenue, Mattoon, IL 61938 is assisting the family.

Mitchell-Jerdan Funeral Home, Mattoon, IL