Samuel David Coleman

Major Samuel David (Dave) Coleman, USAF Ret, died at his home in Norman Tuesday, November 2, 2010 at the age of 68. Born in Hayden, KY to Samuel James and Mary Hall Coleman, he is survived by his devoted wife, Ann; his sons John Joseph of Norman and Matthew David, his wife Elizabeth and their son Samuel David of Las Vegas, NV; his sisters Rose Ellen Rumble and Sandra Robertson, both of Jacksonville, FL, his brother George Russell of Orlando, FL; and twelve nieces and nephews. Dave fought a protracted battle against Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, a rare neurodegenerative disorder. A career Air Force officer, his 22 years of distinguished service included a tour of duty in the Vietnam War (where he received the Bronze Star) and postings in Canada, England, South Korea and throughout the United States, ending at Tinker AFB. During his time with the Air Force he received a Master’s Degree in Counseling. Following his retirement from the USAF, he went to work for CompSource Oklahoma as a Human Resources officer. A lifelong fitness advocate, Dave completed a marathon and trained for endurance bicycle races. Many came to know him through his involvement in soccer. As a parent, coach and referee his time in the Norman Youth (NYSA) and Oklahoma Soccer Associations spanned more than 25 years, including coaching the original Norman Fury team. A tenacious and determined man, he succeeded in all avenues of life including a comfortable and peaceful death surrounded by family. He touched countless lives as a beloved husband, father, brother, friend, coach and mentor.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at St Thomas More University Parish in Norman on Saturday, November 6 at 11:00AM.

Arrangements under the direction of Primrose Funeral Service, Norman, OK.