David Sheldon Kneeter

David Sheldon Kneeter, 76, of Osage Beach, Missouri, passed away on May 28, 2025, in Springfield, Missouri. He was born on January 31, 1949, in New York City, New York, to the late Miriam and Oscar Kneeter.

David proudly served in the United States Army and lived a life of service long after his retirement. He was a dedicated member of Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus, and he found deep purpose in volunteering his time to causes close to his heart. From supporting the Adult Special Olympics to ringing bells dressed as Santa for the Salvation Army—often for full days at a time—David had a passion for lifting others up. After his granddaughter was born with a medical condition requiring multiple surgeries, he became a consistent supporter of Shriners Hospitals for Children.

David’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his daughters Kimberly Kneeter and Tabitha Leighty, son-in-law Daniel Leighty, and his beloved grandchildren: Nakkara George, Kiera George, Payton Leighty, Nevada Leighty, Christopher Leighty, and Orrin Leighty. He is also survived by his siblings Dorothy Dugger and Michael Kneeter. He was preceded in death by his siblings Barbara Kneeter, Sandra O’Brien, Robert Kneeter, and Eddie Kneeter.

He was the kind of dad who may have complained about the long drive to Silver Dollar City—but still bought season passes every year. And when the grandkids came along, he continued the tradition with trips to Six Flags, spending hours waiting patiently while they rode all the rides, then making the long drive home with a smile on his face.

David also had a legendary knack for tracking down the cheapest eggs in Missouri. Armed with senior discounts, sale ads, and cashback apps, he could tell you where to find the best deal on eggs from Camdenton to Jefferson City—and he probably factored in gas prices too.

David was a helper, a giver, and a steady presence in the lives of many. His legacy lives on in the joy he brought to others and the love he poured into his family and community.

A visitation will be held on June 10 at 10:00 AM, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Lake Ozark, Missouri. A military service will take place at 1:30 PM at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children in David’s memory.

Arrangements are under the direction of Allee-Holman-Howe Funeral Home.