David Paul Rice

David was born to Isabelle Rice and Theodore Rice on August 4, 1946. He was the youngest boy of nine children that they shared.

David is preceded in death by his mother, father, brothers, Joe, Marvin and Tracy and his younger sister Connie.

He is survived by his children, Daniel, and Jennifer. His grandchildren-Kyle, Dallas and Kelsea and his ex-wife Margaret. He is also survived by his sisters Bette Jeanne, Ann, Valerie, and his brother Frank.

Dave joined the military at 17 years old and served 2 tours in Vietnam. He was severely wounded during his 2nd tour and was healing in Philadelphia when he met his ex-wife, Margaret. He was awarded a Purple Heart for the injuries he sustained. They were married in May of 1969 and welcomed Daniel in July of 1970 and Jennifer in 1972. Although they were no longer married after 1980, they remained friends because they shared 2 children.

He attended college at Lackawanna Junior College where he earned his degree.

Dave moved to Arizona from Scranton, PA in 1999 where he lived with his daughter, her husband, and their son (his first grandson), until he purchased his home in Show Low, AZ in October 2001.

Dave was a private person who struggled with PTSD after the Vietnam war and did not like asking for help. He was a proud marine and served his country willingly and without regret.

He had a small circle of friends. He loved baseball and beer.

David will be laid to rest at the National Veterans Cemetery in Phoenix, AZ and will be missed by all who loved him.

Semper Fi!

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