John Phelps

John David Phelps, 60, of Huntersville, N.C., formerly of Cape Girardeau, died Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2008, at his home.

He was born Jan. 22, 1948, in Cape Girardeau, son of Henry and Gerda Phelps.

He was a naval aviator and enlisted during the Vietnam War. He was a pilot with American Airlines for 29 years.

David was an avid golfer, great fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and enjoyed a good cigar with fine scotch. David was a proud father and loving brother, accepting of everyone and enjoying friendships with people from various backgrounds. He fought his battle with cancer to the very end.

Survivors include his wife, Sue Phelps; a son, Blake Phelps of Cape Girardeau; a daughter, Tandra Phelps of St. Louis; a stepson, Jay Aichelman; a stepdaughter, Hannah Aichelman; a brother, Dan Phelps of Cape Girardeau; and three sisters, Betty Hellige of St. Louis, Donna Johnstone of Palmdale, Ca., and Nancy Underwood of Jackson.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial service will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at Raymer Funeral Home in Huntersville.

Friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

A local memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Monday at Ford and Sons. Deacon Jim Long will officiate, with burial in St. Mary Cemetery in Cape Girardeau.

Memorials may be made to Christian Children's Fund, 2821 Emery Wood Parkway, Richmond, Va. 23294.