David R Laing

David R. Laing, 63, of Spring Mills, died from the results of a vehicle accident on Thursday, January 14, 2021, at the Mount Nittany Medical Center in State College. Born on October 29, 1957, in Bellefonte, he was the son of Robert T. “Bob” Laing of Centre Hall and Mary L. (Aguilar) Zielinski of Schenectady, NY. On July 3, 2010, he married Jackie C. Edwards, who preceded him in death exactly 3 months ago on October 14, 2020.

David was a 1975 graduate of State College High School. Immediately following graduation, he enlisted with the Army National Guard, Infantry unit. He earned the rank of Private Second Class prior to his honorable discharge. He was awarded the Marksman badge for the M-16. He worked evenings and nights completing janitorial tasks at various laundromats. For many years, David worked in the kitchen at the Legion in Woods, American Legion Post 245, in State College.

David was of the Christian faith. He was a proud veteran and supporter of our military. He was a post member of the American Legion Post 245 in State College. He would spend time with his dad, going to auctions and the train show in York. He tried to never miss the annual airshow in Reading as well. There are many words to describe the kind of person David was, such as happy-go-lucky, easy going, jokester, and caring. He was the type of man that would do anything he could for anyone that needed it. When Jackie showed up in his life, she became his priority, and she gave him purpose. The love and bond they shared was undeniable. David was loved by many and will be missed greatly.

Along with his parents, David is survived by Mary’s husband, George Zielinski of Schenectady, NY; stepdaughter, Jimmi “Neici” Edwards-Lawler and her husband, Patrick, of Philadelphia; three step grandchildren, Killian Inhoof, Madison Lawler, and Emily Lawler; one step great granddaughter, Riley Inhoof; four brothers, James J. “Jamie” Laing of Aaronsburg, Jesse Laing of Philadelphia, Michael Zielinski of Philadelphia, and Stephen Zielinski of Philadelphia; one sister, Margie Laing of Philadelphia; numerous nieces and nephews; and his beloved canine companion, Sunny. 

A viewing will be held on Sunday, January 17, 2021, from 10-11am at the Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, Inc in Centre Hall. A funeral service will immediately follow at 11am with Evelyn Wald officiating. Military honors will be presented by the State College American Legion Honor Guard.

Following CDC recommendations, social distancing is encouraged and face coverings will be required at all services.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, Inc 228 S. Pennsylvania Ave., PO Box 579, Centre Hall, PA 16828. An online guest book can be signed or condolences to the family available at www.daughenbaughfuneralhome.com.