Did your dog try to follow home a kind hearted stranger because the ear scratches and head pats were just too good?

Did you share a laugh over a cup of coffee at the Veterans Hospital, with a handsome, long grey haired fellow with a long beard, but didn't catch his name?

Maybe you were wondering who that dedicated U of L Cardinals fan was, who goes to every game and cheers the loudest.

If so, I'm happy that you got to meet our Dad. A trusted friend, to any and all furry creatures. A constant supporter and fan of U of L Cardinals basketball, who never missed a game. A Father who was always available for advice or a helping hand.

A brave Vietnam War Veteran that you could trust your life with, who always had your back, loved his country, and all who served. One that never failed to visit Zachery Taylor Cemetery,  every Memorial Day, to show honor and respect to those who were there and to visit the ones he knew personally.

That brave soldier fought and won his battle with a very high risk and aggressive cancer. Only to succumb to an undiagnosed, unknown battle, just one month before is 77th birthday.

Dave loved riding his motorcycle, through the winding roads in the knobs of Southern Indiana. Feeling that freedom that it brings.

Dave was a skilled, master artist, with many talents. With the steady hand of a surgeon, he carved with precision. His favorite form of art was woodburning and carving boxes and gourds. All who sees his work want a piece of his artistry, especially his lamps. His gourd lamps were legendary. You could always find him carving while sitting at his desk, at any hour of the day or night.

David, most of all loved his children, Shelley Tilford Smith, Stephanie Tilford Coy, Scott David Tilford. He loved nothing better than spending time with them, having fun  reminiscing old times. David seemed to magically put your worries at ease, just by sitting and talking to him.

Dave was blessed with seven grandchildren that he adored and loved when they would come spend nights with him at his house. They included him in their lives, that he held special in his heart. Kaylee Smith, Kole Smith, Kyla Smith, Klayton Smith, Ezra Coy, Lion Coy, Iben Coy.

His children have said, we love you, Dad and will always miss you beyond words. We will always carry you in our hearts until you welcome us home with open arms, like so many times before.

After 51+yrs of marriage, I have no idea how I can carry on. I have, all my adult life been Susan Scott Tilford sharing this journey called life. You have Always been at my side. We did everything together.Our lives will never be the same. I am now adrift, rudderless, heartbroken and feel a