David John Standring

On Thursday, December 21, 2023, David John Standring, 55, of Bloomington, Indiana, passed away at I.U. Health University Hospital in Indianapolis surrounded by close family. He is survived by his wife and partner of over 30 years, Heather Hales; his father, Gerald Standring; his mother, Karen (Stuart) Ladyga; beloved aunt, Joey Stuart; his brother Andy (Misty) Standring, nephew Aidan Standring; brother-in-law Adrian (Amanda) Hales; sister-in-law, Lori Hales; niece, McKenzie Hales, and nephew, Dylan Hales. Bonus family members include Lee (Janet) Ladyga, Marc Ladyga, Kelly Ladyga, and niece Makenna Ladyga. He was preceded in death by grandparents Dewey and PaPa Stuart, and beloved aunt, Peggy Chisholm.

Born July 12, 1968, in Avon Lake, Ohio, to Gerald Standring and Karen (Stuart) Ladyga, David was a graduate of Avon Lake High School in 1986 and Ohio University, Athens, in 1992, majoring in English Literature. He further continued post-graduate coursework through Antioch University. David was a loving husband, son, and friend, as well as a passionate poet, gifted musician, animal lover, and lifelong professional cook, most recently at Finch’s Brasserie and Bloomington Hospital. A prolific writer and soulful guitarist, Dave collaborated frequently with local musicians, producing three albums featuring his original lyrics and music, and performed live at several local benefit concerts.

David’s talent in the kitchen and genuine love for people made him an inimitable member of the restaurant industry across Ohio, Wisconsin, and back home in Indiana. A true farm-to-table craftsman intrigued by how ingredients blended and balanced each other, colleagues were continually blessed with his expertise, charm, positive energy, and uncanny ability to remain calm amidst the chaos. Dave’s empathy and boundless generosity were perhaps best on display serving brunch at the Community Kitchen of Monroe County, https://www.monroecommunitykitchen.com/donate where he frequently donated his time and patiently taught others his trade. In recognition of his skills, he had been offered a job to teach culinary basics at Ivy Tech this fall semester.

Rarely seen without a book of poetry or his own endless handwritten journals, David’s true passion was as a writer. His enormous capacity to listen to people helped make him a keen observer of the human condition, recognizing beauty and fascinated by even the most mundane subjects. Dave leaves behind a voluminous written legacy filled with his boundless creativity, humor, compassion, and hope. Dave will be greatly missed by the Bloomington community and all that knew and loved him.

With thanks for arrangements made under the direction of Day & Deremiah-Frye Funeral Home, Bloomington, IN. Donations can be made to…

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) lls.org

National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) nccn.org

Cancer Research Institute (CRI)

American Cancer Society (ACS)

Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF)

A Celebration of Life service will be held in the new year with details to follow.