David W. Cleaver (1938-2025)

David W. Cleaver, 87, of Chippewa Township, passed away peacefully on September 19th, 2025, at Celebration Villa of Chippewa. He was born in Pittsburgh on January 15th, 1938, a son of the late Charles and Jane (Myers) Cleaver. In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his first wife, Clorinda Cleaver, his second wife, Felicia (Gizzi) Cleaver and his brother, James Cleaver. He is survived by his devoted daughter, Darlene (David) Coates, his granddaughter, Chelsea (Gregory) Powell, his great-grandchildren, Emma and Gavin, his brother, Donald Cleaver, his sister, Linda Hartley and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

David earned his master’s degree in engineering from Carnegie Tech and began his career at Babcock & Wilcox Company, where he worked first in the hot finish and later as a strategic planner. After his tenure at B&W, he joined Metropolitan Life, focusing on short and long-term financial planning. He was an active member of both Chippewa United Methodist Church and the Beaver Falls Rotary Club.

David’s love for music began at an early age. He played several instruments, including the piano, and had a deep appreciation for classical music. He enjoyed attending the Pittsburgh Symphony multiple times each year and sang with the Mendelssohn Choir as well as various church choirs in the area over the years.

In his retirement, David found joy in traveling with his second wife, Felicia. They cherished exploring the United States and often organized trips with their extended family. Among their favorite adventures were an extended cruise around South America, several trips to Europe and a once-in-a-lifetime journey to China.

Friends will be received on Thursday, September 25th, from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M. at the Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements and where a funeral service will be held, in the funeral home chapel on Friday, September 26th, at 10 A.M. Interment will be private in Beaver Falls Cemetery, 2045 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff of Celebration Villa in Chippewa and Monarch Hospice for the care they provided. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to City Rescue Mission, 319 S Croton Avenue, New Castle, PA, 16101.