David G. Redding, 82, of Rochester, passed away, with family at his side, at the Peabody Retirement Community in North Manchester on the evening of Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 7:25 PM.
On July 13, 1943, David Gene Redding was born in Russiaville. He was the treasured son of Gene and Elizabeth (Kelly) Redding. Growing up, he shared his childhood with his older sister, Colleen.
Dave graduated from Burlington High School in 1961 and spent several years working for Chrysler. Patriotism beckoned and Dave answered the call, serving our country with the United States Army National Guard. Following his service, he was honorably discharged on April 17, 1964. Dave went on to graduate from the Indiana State Police Academy, and on September 1, 1966, was appointed to the Indiana State Police District #16 in Peru. Trooper Redding served and protected Miami and surrounding counties during his 34-year career with ISP. In 1975 he was promoted to Sergeant and served eleven years in that position. Later he moved to Corporal and served as a District Duty Officer until his retirement on March 2, 2000. Dave took great pride in being a Trooper and later in life was still known for being courteous and helpful to others, always finding ways he could be of service.
A man of diverse interests, Dave enjoyed collecting guns and target practice. On a day off from work, he could be found hunting mushrooms or arrowheads, as he had an interest in Native American artifacts. Dave enjoyed finding unique, high quality pocket knives and wound up with quite a collection. He could always be counted on to pull one out of his pocket to help with opening packages during birthday and Christmas celebrations with family.
Dave also enjoyed fishing and had the opportunity to take a trip to Canada that he would never forget. He was a proud member of the ISP “Carp Anglers” and thoroughly enjoyed annual trips to Shakamak State Park with his fellow Troopers. Later in life, he would share that it was more the camaraderie (and a few shenanigans) he enjoyed more than the fishing. He also enjoyed annual canoe trips, also with his fellow Troopers and their wives, and would like the record to show it was always Linda who tipped the canoe, never him.
When time allowed, Dave loved the freedom his shiny Harley-Davidson provided, taking day trips around the Midwest. He craved the feeling of freedom while cruising down backroads, taking in the scenery, with the wind in his face.
Dave was a devoted father and spent many hours during Kelly’s childhood teaching her how to fish, ride a bike, shoot a BB gun and all things outdoors. Later, he showed her how to keep her car “road ready” and they both enjoyed buying, selling and trading cars, sometimes on a whim. Always her protector, Dave would have done anything to ensure her safety and she never doubted his love for her. She will always remember his easy smile, his laughter and the delight in his eyes every time he saw her.
As the patriarch of his family, Grandpa Redding was proud to oversee his legacy of three generations. He could be found at various sporting events, always in the T-shirt to match. His grandchildren were his pride and joy and he bragged on them every chance he got. They will remember their Grandpa as adventurous, valiant, compassionate, affectionate and adoring of them.
Dave is lovingly remembered by his daughter Kelly (Clint) Gard of Rochester; his wife of 30 years and lifelong friend Linda Lane; 4 grandchildren: Madelyn (Drew) Schauss, Drew Sailors, Greyson Gard and Declan Gard; a sister Colleen (Norman) Blackburn of Culter; three nieces and nephews: Brad (Lora) Blackburn, Cindy McKinley, Mike (Jan) Blackburn; along with great nieces and nephews.
David's family wish to express their sincere appreciation to the Peabody Retirement Community, Paradigm Health Hospice Care and Wynnfield Crossing for their love, compassion and exceptionally professional care during Dave's most recent years.
A Celebration of the life of Mr. David G. "Dave" Redding will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at noon in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th Street, Rochester, IN. Friends may visit with his family from 10:00 AM until the time of the service. Chaplain JP Freeman will officiate. The Indiana State Police Honors Team, The Fulton County Veteran's Honor Guard and United States Army will accord a special tribute and honors. Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to the Alzheimer's Association online at alz.org or by mail to 320 Nevada St. Suite 201, Newton, MA 02460.
