David Francis “Dave” Gourley, 79, of New Florence, passed away on Thursday, October 31, 2024, at Monterey Park Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Independence.
Dave was born on July 19, 1945, the son of Lacona Wendell Gourley and Anna Elizabeth (Miller) Gourley. He graduated from Troy Buchanan High School and went on to join the United States Army in October 1965. He served in the Vietnam War, earning his numerous service medals and bars. Dave married Donna Sue Webb on July 25, 1970. They were married for 25 years.
Dave's journey into real estate in the late 1970s and early 1980s reflected his entrepreneurial spirit. He had a knack for buying and remodeling houses, most of which were in the Westport area of Kansas City. This showcased his talents, creativity and vision. He had an eye for hidden gems—finding value in what others might overlook, with some old horse trader tendencies. His love for treasure sales was more than just a hobby; it was a way for him to connect with others, uncovering “junk” that he saw as pure gold. He loved music and you could often find him listening to old records or traveling across the world via his favorite public television shows. He had a unique approach to life; his generous spirit and dreamer mentality left a lasting impact on those around him, making him not just an entrepreneur, but a beloved figure to those who knew him.
Dave is survived by his children, Debra Moldenhauer and husband, Arnold of Springfield, Angela Jackson of Oklahoma City, Okla., Wendell Gourley of Independence, Adam Gourley and wife, Blayr of Bartlesville, Okla.; grandchildren, Madeline Olive and husband, David, Gabrielle Sheridan, Tre Moldenhauer, Gavin Gourley, Ava June Gourley, Rhett Gourley, Graham Gourley and Nola Gourley; great-grandchildren, Vivian Olive and Calvin Olive; sisters, Elza Turner, Jane Runkles and Linda Miller. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A memorial service with military honors will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at Schlanker Funeral Home in Montgomery City, with the Reverend Lynn Quist officiating. Inurnment will follow in the Montgomery City Cemetery.
A visitation will be held from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. on Friday, November 15, 2024 at Schlanker Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Wellsville VFW or to the First United Methodist Presbyterian Church in Montgomery City in care of Schlanker Funeral Home, 207 Danville Road, Montgomery City, Missouri 63361.
