David Alan Carey, 61

David Carey passed away suddenly in his Schaumburg home on Nov. 22, 2023.

David was born on Nov. 2, 1962 in Woodstock to John Kevin Carey and Barbara Ann Carey. He was the third of four children. He grew up in Woodstock and graduated from Woodstock High School, where he played baseball and varsity football.

Post-high school David worked for three years as an oil rig deck hand in Oklahoma before returning home to work with his father, John Carey, in the family construction business. He then started his career at United Airlines, first as a reservation specialist, then as a ramp service associate. During this time David earned his airframe and powerplant license at Richard J. Daley College, after which he had a 25+ year career at United as an aircraft mechanic.

David was very proud of his United career, earning the respect of his co-workers as well as numerous awards. It was during his time as a mechanic that he was honored to accompany two flights of U.S. troops home from battle in Iraq.

David was always there for his children, as a soccer and baseball coach, Boy Scout leader, as well as being chauffeur and chief cheerleader for his daughter in her cheer activities.

David was very proud of his two sons’ enlistment in the Navy and their patriotic service.

David is survived by his three children, Kyle (Jackie) Peterson, John Nolan Carey, and Grace Carey; two grandchildren, Peyton and Owen Peterson; his siblings, Gail Carey (Fred Faulkner), Carol (Brian) Buckley, and Jeff (Kim) Carey; four nieces and nephews, Jack Buckley (Godson), Abby (Eric) Luhrsen, Olivia Carey, and Ty Carey; and many cousins and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Barbara Carey.

Visitation will be at Schneider, Leucht, Merwin & Cooney Funeral Home in Woodstock from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 29. A private service will be held on Thursday, Nov. 30, followed by interment at McHenry County Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the American Heart Association.