David was born on December 26, 1946, at St. Mary's Hospital in Port Arthur, Texas. He is preceded in death by his parents, Christine and A.J. Clingan, sisters, San Pillion and Carol Dauphine, brothers in law, Les Armentor, Shelton Thibodeaux, and Steve Pillion. He is survived by his sisters, Sherry Armentor of Groves, Jennie Thibodeaux of Horseshoe Bay, and brother-in-law Terry Dauphine of Groves.

David graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in Port Arthur in 1966 and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. He graduated from boot camp in San Diego, California, and went to Camp Pendleton for Advanced Infantry Training. His next duty station was Camp LeJeune, North Carolina, with the II Marine Expeditionary Force. His next assignment took him to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, where he was a proud member of both the Marine Fast Pitch Softball Team and the Marine Swim Team. Returning to Camp LeJeune he underwent specialized guerrilla warfare, prisoner of war, and survival training. He later served on the silent rifle drill team and honor platoon in Okinawa, performing for visiting dignitaries, while also training in jungle warfare and Marine Force Recon.

In February of 1968, David deployed to fight in the Vietnam War.  Holding the rank of Corporal, David was part of Delta Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division. He served bravely during the Tet Offensive in Hue, one of the bloodiest and most historic battles in U.S. military history. In July 1968, he rotated back to El Toro Marine Air Station in California.

Upon returning home to Port Arthur, David attended Lamar University in Beaumont and San Jacinto College in Pasadena, Texas, pursuing an Aeronautical Professional Pilot Degree. He successfully achieved his private, commercial, and multi engine pilot's licenses, flying as a part time corporate pilot for Waukesha-Pearce.

While attending San Jacinto College, David met Robbie, who became - in David's own words - the absolute love of his life. They married in 1974 and spent 52 wonderful years together. Realizing that the travel of a corporate pilot was tough on family life, David chose a different path and dedicated his career at DuPont as a skilled Instrument and Electrical Technician. While at DuPont, David headed up the School Fire Safety Program for several school districts in the area.

Following his retirement in 2005, David enjoyed spending time with his long-time buddy and neighbor, John, including daily happy hours at 3:00. David could build or fix absolutely anything. One of his grandsons beautifully summed it up by saying he loved hanging around PaPa because "He knows a lot about everything." David loved barbecuing, hunting, camping, collecting guns and knives, and drinking Wild Turkey.

David leaves behind the loves of his life: his devoted wife, Robbie; his daughter Kimberly Floyd and her husband Steve, along with their children Maci, Brodie, and Brynli of Friendswood; and his daughter Kristen Pace and her husband Mike, along with their children Nathan, Katelyn, and Army of League City.

He lived a wonderfully colorful life, which prompted a lifetime of stories that he shared generously with all. A gifted storyteller with a natural ability to captivate a room, his favorite subject was always his family. Above all, his greatest joy was being with them. He held an immense, unwavering pride in each of his children and grandchildren, never missing an opportunity to celebrate their achievements – big or small- to anyone who would listen.

A Celebration of Life will be held June 20th at Peevey Funeral Home,
12440 Beamer Rd. Houston, Texas. The service begins at 11:00 a.m. with visitation at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the National Vietnam War Museum by going to www.nationalvnwarmuseum.org
Please include his name, David Clingan and his email, davidclingan@hotmail.com so we will be able to express our thanks for your kindness.