Dave was born on August 8, 1956, in Moline, the son of Robert and Pauline (Neuleib) Shaw.
Dave found meaning in life each moment he was working with a young person, whether that be his beloved nephews and niece, Jared and Tyler Shaw, and Jaci (Josh) Daupert and his “adopted” nieces, Samantha Decker, and Laila and Cyan Patt, or in the art studio, the theatre, or the classroom. He was perfectly in his element when teaching. Wisdom and understanding flowed from him like a mountain stream when talking to kids of any age. He graduated from Illinois State University with a Bachelor of Science in Art Education K-12 certification. Dave worked for six years in the Chandlerville School District teaching K-12 art. He then taught art and drama for over 30 years for the Rochester School District until his retirement in 2016.
If you asked any student which teacher had the most powerful impact on their lives, which teacher understood their struggles, which teacher helped to guide them to becoming a better artist and a better person, the answer would be, “Mr. Shaw.”
Words may have sometimes come hard to him, but his pen, his brush, and his alcohol inks spoke more than words often do. He could transform a piece of wood into marble or stone. He could create an Italian piazza on a weatherworn outdoor stage, and he could help a child or Alzheimer’s patient find expression in a world where language didn’t exist.
One of his hallmark creations, however, was directing his high school plays where he created community in the most meaningful and powerful way. Together with the athletes, the popular, the lonely, those who struggled to belong, and the aspiring artists, he created a united community which worked seamlessly together to perform visually beautiful and elegant productions.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents; brother, James Shaw; and nephews, Tyler and Michael Shaw.
He is survived by his loving sister, Deb Shaw of Normal; brother, Jeff (Laura) Shaw of Speedway, IN; sister-in-law, Risé (Rick) Shaw-Grochowski; dear friends, David Decker and Leigh Steiner; and Skye, his beloved greyhound who was by his side until the end.
Every time you see the clouds forming pictures, know that God’s artist, Dave, is at work.
“Man must fill his life with meaning, meaning is not automatically given to life. It is hard work. A life filled with meaning is worthy of rest. I want to be worthy of rest when I am no longer here.” - Chaim Potok. Dave is indeed worthy of rest.
Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.
Celebration of Dave’s Life and Gathering: 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 30, 2022 at Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield with Leigh Steiner officiating. A Memorial Gathering will follow until 4:00 p.m. Dave's Celebration of Life Ceremony can be viewed after 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 29, 2022, by clicking HERE
Memorial contributions may be made to Springfield Art Association, 700 N. 4th St., Springfield, IL 62702, or Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., Springfield, IL 62701.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.9.6