David G. Scheer of Cape May Court House and Townsends Inlet, NJ, formerly of Springfield, Delaware County, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Riddle Memorial Hospital. He was 83 years old.
Born in West Philadelphia, David was the son of the late Robert and Winifred (nee Farrell) Scheer. During his teen years, he was a dedicated son who worked alongside his dad painting houses. In his spare time, he played basketball on the Granahan playground, dominating the courts. Richie, his younger brother, fondly recalls Dave being the protector of the Scheer brothers. He retold a story to his children about a boy taking his bike from him. He said as usual Dave dealt with the bully and he saw his big brother returning with his bike… this was typical of Dave- no one messed with his brothers or sister. He was loyal and protective to all he loved.
After graduating from St. Thomas More High School, Dave started as an apprentice typographer with the Philadelphia Bulletin. He eventually ascended to become one of the main compositors, as well as the Treasurer and later President of the Typographical Workers Union. He proudly worked at the Bulletin until the presses rolled to a stop. He later worked as a circulation manager for the Philadelphia Inquirer until his retirement.
When David was eight years old, his family moved to 65th and Girard, where he wooed his future wife, Barbara Buonanno, by pelting her with snowballs. Their love story spanned over 75 years, with 62 years of marriage resulting in six children, twenty grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
Dave’s first love was his family, always making sure they were taken care of first; but golfing, fishing, and Townsends Inlet, NJ, were a CLOSE second. He was a multi-senior golf champion at Avalon and Stone Harbor Country Clubs. Golfers revered him and flounders feared him. Dave was also a diehard Eagles fan—his kids knew his mood depended entirely on a win or a loss. An Eagles victory meant he treated the family to hoagies; a loss meant it was best to just stay clear.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Barbara, and his six children: Kristine (Scott) Walters and grandchildren Scott (Mackenzie) , Matthew(Danielle) , Nicholas, Andrew, Nathaniel, Molly, Emma, and Caleb; Sister Dr. Karen Scheer, RSM; David R. (Rhonda) Scheer and grandchildren Alexandra, Haley, David, and Camryn; Michael R. (Stacie) Scheer and grandchildren Ethan, Aidan, Sadye, and Gyanna; Matthew J. Scheer and grandchildren Mia and Madaline; and Jennifer L. (Russel) Brown and grandchildren Isabella and Isaac. And finally the sweet addition of the first great-grandchild, Emery; Also survived by his brothers Robert (Marietta) Scheer and Richard F. Scheer; and 48 nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers Joseph and Edward, and his sister Dolores Martine and her husband Frank. His nephew, Carey Scheer; nieces Renee Martine, and Bethanne Gallagher.
Dave would want to be remembered as a force to be reckoned with—and he certainly was, in the best way possible. His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him. We ask all who loved him or his family to join us in celebrating his life.
Service Information:
His visitation will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:45 AM at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 430 Valleybrook Road, Glen Mills, PA 19342. A Funeral Mass will follow at 12:00 PM.
Memorial Contributions:
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Dave’s name may be made to:
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Tunnel to Towers Foundation (supporting those affected by 9/11), 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.
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Gary Sinise Foundation (supporting service members and first responders), PO Box 1858, Merrifield, VA 22116.
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Sisters of Mercy, 8403 Colesville Road, Suite 400, Silver Spring, MD 20910.
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