Lafayette – David Allen Cornell, 71 of Lafayette, passed away at 5:20 PM Sunday, February 9, 2020 following a lengthy battle with cancer.  He was born in Lafayette on September 10, 1948 son of the late Lee E. and Mary Ella Spence Cornell.  He married Kathi L. Tigler in Lafayette, December 31, 1981 and she survives.

Dave attended Wainwright, served in the USMC Reserves and retired from Milestone as a Superintendent.  He previously worked as a restaurant manager.  He had attended Dayton United Methodist Church, where he enjoyed working the 'Food Truck'.

Dave had a kind, giving, heart of gold and would give you the shirt off his back.  He was a man of few words, often grumpy, a straight shooter and you always knew where you stood with him.  He enjoyed being outdoors, hunting, mushroom hunting and hunting for arrowheads.  His greatest joy and love was his immediate family, especially his grandchildren and close friends.  Over the years he seldom missed his daughter's activities…he didn't want boys and got his wish, with three girls!  He taught his girls to be strong, resilient and instilled a great work ethic. He had great respect for the elderly, disabled and those who served in the military.

Surviving along with Kathi, are: three daughters; Ashley N (Jack) Reece and Katie L. (fiancé Jeremy Miller) both of West Point and Jennifer (Greg) Sayers of Bloomington.  Uncle/Aunt Larry and Judy Cornell of Battle Ground.  Grandchildren:  Jackson A. and Cody Reece, Mac Lee and MaCayla L. McIntosh, Mariah and Clayton Miller.  Several cousins also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents, and infant son Allen Lee. A sister Derina Sparger, his grandparents, several uncles and aunts.

Visitation hours, 5:30 – 7:30 PM Thursday, February 13, 2020 with funeral services following at 7:30 PM with Pastor Eric Schneider officiating at Family and Friends Funeral Home of Wingate (9700 North State Road 55 Wingate, IN  47994).  Memorial contributions may most appropriately be directed to the Wounded Warrior Program.  Visit us online at www.familyandfriendsfh.com to sign the guest book or leave a condolence.