David L. Hess

David Lee Hess, 76, of Madison, KS, passed away peacefully at his home on Sept. 13, 2024. David was born in Emporia, KS on April 10, 1948, the son of Clair and Lucille (Jeck) Hess.

David grew up on a farm 6 miles southwest of Madison, KS with his 5 siblings. He attended both elementary and high school in Madison, graduating from Madison High School in 1966. He furthered his education at Flint Hills Vo-Tech in Emporia, where he completed two years of coursework in Auto Mechanics. David’s career began with a position at Rainbo Baking Co., where he worked in the truck repair shop while still in school. He lived briefly in Wichita, KS where he continued working for Rainbo, driving transport. In April 1972, he moved back to Madison when he joined Jack Cooper Transport Co., where he dedicated himself to hauling new automobiles until his retirement in 2007.

In his own words, David was introduced to "the most wonderful woman in the world", Connie Webb, in 1976. The two were united in marriage on February 18, 1977 in Hutchinson, KS. Together, they raised their 4 children in Madison. 

Beyond his professional life, David was an outdoorsman who found joy in fishing, embracing the simple pleasure of catching whatever would bite. His love for nature extended to gardening and an overall appreciation for being outdoors. 

David is survived by his children, Stephanie Calderwood (John), Eric Hess (Kari), and Jennifer Hess; beloved grandchildren, Ashton Hess, Holden Hess Wilson, Jake Calderwood, Drew Hess, and Aubree Hess; sister, Cindy Robison (Bob) and brothers, Lynn Hess, and Jerry Hess (Shala).

He was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Connie Hess; son, Brian Hess; granddaughter, Allison "Alli" Hess; as well as his brothers Jim and Don Hess, and his parents.

A visitation will take place on September 23, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, followed by a funeral service on September 24, 2024, at 10:30 AM, both held at VanArsdale Funeral Home, 202 W. Main Street, Madison, Kansas. He will be laid to rest at Blakely Cemetery following services. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made out to the Alli Hess Memorial Fund and sent c/o the funeral home, PO Box 488, Madison, KS 66860.