David Dale Hanlon

David Dale Hanlon, 59, of Crown Point, passed away Thursday, Sept 18 surrounded by his loving, hymn-singing family. David is survived by his parents, Rev. John and Katherine Hanlon who were holding his hands as he slipped away peacefully. David is survived by five siblings, Rev. Judy Hanlon (Glenn Richards), Becky (Jim) Dunham, Maribeth (Michael) St. Aubin, Steve (Karen) Hanlon, and Deborah (David) Hunt. David had 17 nieces and nephews. David is also survived by 13 great nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his brother, John "Bill" Hanlon. David attended Valparaiso Nazarene Church where he also drove the parking shuttle bus to bring worshippers to church and Sunday school. David demonstrated his Christian faith by welcoming everyone onto the bus with his joyful smile and genuine laughter. David was a bus driver for more than 30 years. He drove Porter Township and Boone Grove school children who called him “Mr. Dave.” David had an excellent safety and attendance record. David also drove charter busses around the United States, including presidential campaign staff during the 2008 election year. The Secret Service detail commended David for his excellent driving. He also drove a group of students to Washington D.C. in 2008 for the president's inauguration. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, David drove a bus to New Orleans, LA to aid in the evacuation of stranded people. The medical staffs at Advocate Christ Hospital in Oak Lawn, IL; Golden Living Center Fountainview Place in Portage, IN; St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart, IN; Pinnacle Hospital in Crown Point and Vitas Hospice all showed great compassion in caring for both David and his family since his accident in April. The family is very grateful. The family will celebrate David’s life Sunday, September 21, 2014 at Burns Funeral Home, 10101 Broadway, Crown Point, IN. Visitation is from 1 – 4 p.m. David’s cousin, Rev. Hugh Duncan, a missionary with Convoy of Hope will officiate the funeral service a 4 p.m. Burial will be Monday at Calumet Park Cemetery in Merrillville. Donations in David’s honor can be made to Convoy of Hope, www.convoyofhope.org.

David Dale Hanlon

July 31, 1955 - September 18, 2014