David P. "Big Dave" Schenkel, 81, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, passed away on November 15, 2025, surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Fort Wayne to Cletus P. Schenkel and Marguerite L. (Creigh) Schenkel, who preceded him in death.

Dave graduated from the University of Dayton and began his career as a management trainee with International Harvester. A natural entrepreneur even in his college years, he earned extra income by selling and delivering birthday cakes on behalf of out-of-state parents and by buying railroad ties for resale as landscaping décor—early signs of the work ethic and innovation that would define his career.

In 1967, he founded D.P.S. Co., applying his growing manufacturing expertise to supply world-class OEMs including International Harvester, Caterpillar, Ford Truck, Mack Truck, and John Deere. He later acquired L & L Fittings Mfg., significantly expanding his manufacturing operations until his retirement in 2006.

Dave was deeply committed to helping young people thrive. He spearheaded fundraising to build two Youth Services homes—the Kryder and Yoder homes—providing structure and stability for teens and supporting their success after high school. For his distinguished service to the state, he was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash by Governor Joseph Kernan.

He enjoyed his membership at Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach, FL, and the memorable events he attended there. A member of the Fort Wayne Country Club since 1973, Dave loved golf and cherished the friendships he made on the course. He and his wife, Susan, treasured winters in Fort Lauderdale, decades of family trips to their beach house on Hilton Head Island, and many adventures around the world.

Dave is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Susan (Bowser) Schenkel; his children Bradley D. (Chicago), Gregory L. (Hilton Head), Tracy Ceravolo (Ridgefield, WA), and Douglas P. (Fort Wayne); and five grandchildren: Ian and Casey Schenkel, Caroline and Caleb Ceravolo, and his namesake, David P. Schenkel II. He is also survived by three siblings: Cletus P. Schenkel Jr. (Big Long Lake), Christopher P. Schenkel (Fort Wayne), and Marita Tuohy (Indianapolis).

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional caregivers who helped make Dave's final years as full and comfortable as possible.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana, 1005 W. Rudisill Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46807, are appreciated.

A Celebration of Life will be held on December 17, 2025, from 6:00–8:00 PM at the Fort Wayne Country Club, with stories, cocktails, and hors d'oeuvres.