David R. Poling

David Richard Poling, age 63, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Thursday, July 14, 2022 at Parkview Regional Medical Center. Born on March 11, 1959, he was the son of the late Richard E. and Elaine (Ringenberg) Poling. David was a 1978 graduate of Northrop High School in Fort Wayne. He worked in the restaurant business for many years, and later graduated from Sullivan University School of Culinary Arts, Louisville, Kentucky. During his time at Sullivan, he participated in a number of baking competitions, for which he won several awards. Following graduation from Sullivan, he worked as a pastry chef at Disneyworld. He developed a keen interest in writing, later in life, and was most proud of his children’s book, "A Rabatrosity, Rab’s Story", which was published in 2015. As a hobby, he competed regularly in the game of pool, and earned the opportunity to compete in Las Vegas with his team – winning multiple awards. He also enjoyed his dogs, and helping other people in need. He will be greatly missed by his surviving family, including his siblings, Debbie DeMeritt, Donald Poling, and Diane (Greg) Fisher; seven nieces and nephews; 11 great nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Styx. David was preceded in death by his parents; and his faithful dog, Buddy. A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 30, 2022 at Hockemeyer & Miller Funeral Home, 6131 St. Joe Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46835 with calling from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Memorials can be made to the Fort Wayne Rescue Mission, The Community Harvest Food Bank, or to Humane Fort Wayne for the care and adoption of animals. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be left at www.hockemeyermillerfh.com for David’s family.