David “Dave” L. Shaw, Sr., 77, of Springfield, passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at his home. He was born on December 5, 1948, in Springfield, the son of Charles Merle and Ella Louise (Koehn) Shaw. He married Donna Jean Stout on October 6, 1989, and she preceded him in death on May 3, 2011.
Dave proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, enlisting on April 14, 1966, and serving until June 10, 1969, out of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. He held the rank of Lance Corporal with E Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines, 2nd Marine Division, and served during the Vietnam War.
During his time in service, Dave demonstrated exceptional bravery and dedication. He was awarded numerous awards and recognitions including the Purple Heart with two gold stars, the Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze service stars, the National Defense Service Medal, the Presidential Unit Citation, the Combat Action Ribbon, and the Good Conduct Medal. His service reflects a life of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment.
Beyond his military service, Dave was deeply devoted to giving back. He served as Chairman of Toys for Tots and as Vice President of the VietNow. His generosity was evident in both his time and contributions—so much so that he accumulated pages of thank-you letters from organizations he supported throughout his life. He quietly made a difference in the lives of many.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents; son, Bryan Shaw; granddaughter, Donna Marie Colon; and three brothers, Russell Chase, James Shaw and Kenneth Shaw.
Survivors include his two children, Tracy (Trent) Peterman of Sherman and David L. Shaw, Jr. of Springfield; three stepdaughters, Marla (Rod) Matticks of Cottle Ville, MO, Cindy (Jeremy) Carey of Dexter, MO and Mary Jo Conrad of Quincy; eleven grandchildren, Carson and Jayda Peterman, Timothy O’Bryan, Jeremy Matticks (Murk MatteBlack), Trevor Matticks, Brianna (Matt) Dondanville, Andrea Carey (Justin Adams), Kaylee (Scott) Strickler, Madison Carey, Gaberial Conrad (Gabriella Davis), and JoAnn Louise Schanz; four great-grandchildren, Henry, William and Emma Dondanville and Ivy Mae Strickler; two sisters, Rose Chase of Zeper Hills, FL and Sandra Shaw of Springfield; and two brothers, Bobby (Sue) Shaw of Springfield and Michael (Carol) Shaw of Rantoul.
Visitation: 5:00 – 7:00 pm, Monday, April 6, 2026, at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield.
Graveside Service: 10:00 am, Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Camp Butler National Cemetery, with Pastor Mark Johnson officiating and where military honors will be conducted.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Marine Corps Reserve Sangamon County Toys for Tots.
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