David L. Southan

Dave Southan passed away on December 17, 2025. Born, November 6, 1937 in East Liverpool, OH to the late Wilfred and Elma Southan. Preceded in death by his adored son, William, and endearing sister, Martha Swift. Survived by his devoted wife, Marty, cherished daughter, Melissa, trusted son-in-law, Scott Wright, and deeply beloved grandson, Mason. Dave was an Ohio University graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and member of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity. Dave served proudly in the Ohio National Guard, 37th DIVARTY, as Staff Sergeant (E-6 rank) working full time at Fort Hayes and in the Great Lakes Merchant Marine on Lake Erie. Dave then worked 33 years with United Parcel Service in Columbus, OH as a Feeder Driver logging over 3 million miles. He earned the exclusive UPS Circle of Honor driver recognition by achieving 28 years of accident-free driving.

Dave’s passion was bass fishing and boating. He was highly skilled in both and continued to enjoy those past times until recently. He was actively involved in 2 local bass fishing clubs in the 1980s serving as member and later President. He participated in many area tournaments earning National B.A.S.S. awards for his achievements and an opportunity to participate in a Bassmaster Classic tournament. He shared his passion for fishing with his son, Will, and grandson, Mason. Dave was known for his extensive fishing tackle and equipment collection and enjoyed gifting starter rods, reels, and tackle to friends’ children. He was also a supporter of the NRA.

Dave became involved in his community in the early 2000s by serving as Clintonville Commissioner for over 7 years. He was also appointed Safety Liaison working with the Columbus Police Department on several initiatives to ensure the areas, near his home of nearly 50 years, remained safe to live, work, and raise families.

Dave enjoyed socializing in the front yard with fellow neighbors as they took their dogs for walks, sharing stories about the local deer herd, and giving updates about his family in Georgia. He proudly displayed The Ohio State University and University of Georgia flags on the chimney during football season, which garnered much attention and conversation. Dave will be dearly missed by his family and friends but reunited in eternal life with his loving son in a place where the fish are always biting.