David William Panian’s larger than life spirit left us on June 25, 2023. David was born into this world on February 6, 1957 to Mary E. Panian and George W. Panian, both of whom preceded him in death.

David married his soul mate, best friend, the love of his life, Renee, on June 10, 1998. They celebrated 25 years together this past June.

Survived by his wife Renee Panian and five children, Joe Panian, Bethany (Joshua) Ho, Andrew Panian (Jasmine and Ayden), Erin (Matthew) Seidel and Chelsey (Chris) Olson.

Bomp, Bompa, Bompy and Grampy Caterpillar were the chosen names given to him from his three grandchildren, Olivia White, Amelia Olson and Henry Seidel. David enjoyed time spent with these three camping, hiking, birdwatching and telling stories around the campfire. He lovingly and enthusiastically passed on his love of camping and nature to his grandchildren as well as his own children.

He is further survived by his siblings Sue (Tim) Swallow, Tom (Mickey) Panian, Mary Jane Bohnert (Dave) and John (Cindy) Panian. He was preceded in death by his sister, Peggy Panian.

Joyfully welcomed brother-in-law (outlaw) Kristine (Richard) Gaffney, Mark (Janice) Risinger, Greg (Susan) Risinger and Jeff (Quincy) Risinger.

Friends to many with special bonds to Debbie, Scott, Josh, Paul, Vicki and Christian.

David was employed at Christian Hospital Northeast for 22 years. In those 22 years he met many co-workers, some of whom became his friends. He will forever be known as Grateful Dave or Five-OH to many of those colleagues.

Scouting was an important and loved aspect of David’s life. His passion for scouting led to dedicating several years on camp staff at S-F (Swift Explorer Base) where he became part of the waterfront administration. He received the Award of Eagle Scout in July of 1973 and the Vigil Honor of Order of the Arrow in April 1978. Over the years camp staff reunions at S-F were spent with old and new friends.

David’s joys were his family, friends, fur dog children, camping and traveling. His love of music stretched over many genres with Jazz and Blues being his favorites.

Thank you to family, friends and even people we have never met who have reached out to us giving us so much love and support through this difficult time.

The loss of David will most certainly leave a void in all of our lives but please remember his contagious laugh, jokes, outgoing personality and wonderful smile in hopes that his memory will put a smile on your face.

Dearest David, 

You were and always will be the love of my life. I will always love you inside out, upside down and all around. We will dance in the moonlight again someday…Love, Renee

A Celebration of David Panian’s Life will be held Sunday, August 20, 2023 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Red Oven Wood Fired Pizza

315 Saint Francois St. 

Florissant, Missouri 63031

Please join us in wearing a Hawaiian shirt, a piece of flair or purple.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to these causes in David’s name:

Camp Staff Scholarship Fund Greater St. Louis Area Council BSA 

4568 West Pine
Saint Louis, Missouri 63108

or

Paws in Heaven 

1951 S. Rangeline Road 

Columbia, Missouri 65201