D avid Allen Keator , 66, of rural Roanoke, died peacefully in the company of family at 9:35 a.m. Monday, February 17, 2025, at his home.

Born on February 22, 1958, at Fox Hospital in Oneonta, New York, he was a son of the late Angevine and Mildred (Carr) Keator.  Growing up in Schenevus, NY, he completed his formal schooling.

Becoming a professional truck driver, he delivered dairy products in the local area, then became an over-the-road driver hauling refrigerated products coast to coast.  Adopting the CB handle "Weasel," he soon became known by all by that name.  Embroidered on his uniform, painted on his truck, and even the grandkids called him Papa Weasel.  He retired from Transcontinental Refrigerated Lines (TRL) with over 17 years of service.  He then became an auto body man and automotive mechanic.

For the past 27 years, David has lived with his companion, Pamela Mathias, in Beech Grove, Indiana.  In 2023, the couple moved to rural Roanoke to be closer to family.

David was an avid fisherman, fishing whenever the opportunity arose.  A patriotic man, he typically dressed in red-white-and-blue, collected eagle figures, and adorned his vehicles and property in a patriotic theme.  He enjoyed watching the NASCAR race series and adored his Chihuahuas, Sadie, Jakie, and Buddy, who survive.

Surviving is his beloved companion of 28 years, Pamela; his children, Michele (Kyle) Ritton of Portlandville, NY, and Tracy (Jeremy) Staruck of Johnstown, CO; her children, Trista (Troy) Shively of Roanoke, Mitchell Mathias of Columbia City, and Joshua (Jamie) Mathias of South Whitley; grandchildren, Jay Robinson, Aubriana Robinson, Sophia Staruck, Landen Keator, Skylar Mathias, Mikayla Watkins, Jasymn Mathias, Levi Mathias, Jersee Mathias, Autumn Mathias, Madelyn Shivley, Troy "TJ" Shively, and Kenzley Shively; sisters, Deborah Burton, Betty Wamsley of Oneonta, NY, Angevine (Judy) Keator of Maryland, NY, Roberta Briggs of Schenevus, New York, Rebecca (Leland) March of Oneonta, NY and Lisa (Russell) Keever of Worcester, NY.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by a son, David "Buddy" Keator; brothers, Robert and Thomas Keator; a sister, Joan Keator; and nephews, Raymond Wamsley and Brandon Keator.

David desired to have no services.  Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.