David Franklin Wheat was born on June 4th, 1963, in Pittsburgh, PA to Joan and Grady Wheat, Jr. He departed this life February 6th. 2018. He was preceded in death by his mother Joan Wheat and his father Grady Wheat, Jr. He was the youngest of 4 siblings. Dave grew up in the Hill District on Bentley Drive where he received numerous nicknames but was affectionately known as Wheat.
Dave was educated in the Pittsburgh Public School system and a graduate of Brashear High School in 1982. He attended Community College of Allegheny County, where he received his Associates Degree in Communications. In high school, Dave became a sports enthusiast. He managed his high school's basketball team and coached the Connie Hawkins Summer League from high school to adulthood. He continued to serve youth through his love for sports through various youth organizations.
On January 26th, 1996, Dave married Tracy Williamson and from that union they had the pleasure to parent three beautiful children, Angel, Sydney and Daniel. As his family grew, so did his love for sports. He traveled any and everywhere to support his children in all their athletic endeavors.
Even with no children of his own on a sports team, Dave could be seen in the stands at countless Chester high school basketball games. He was an avid member of the Chester High School Parents Club, where he loved to support the Chester High School basketball players and cheerleaders in any way that he could. Whether it was giving out rides to players and their families or volunteering at the concession stands.
The only thing that matched Dave's love for basketball was his love for mankind. He had the biggest heart and jumped at the chance to lend a helping hand. He tried to help help every man, woman and child in any way possible. Dave also had a very infectious smile, it would light the room even in the dullest moments. Dave's hugs always made you feel loved.
Although Dave was quick to help others, he knew charity starts at home. He worked tirelessly to support his family and kept his promise that his kids would never have to worry about anything. He had a longstanding career at American Airlines (formerly US Airways). He was hired in 1989 as a Ramp Agent at the Pittsburgh International Airport.
In 2000, Dave transferred to the Philadelphia International Airport, where he remained until he earned his wings!
He leaves to cherish his memory wife, Tracy Williamson-Wheat, Son, Daniel Williamson, Daughters, Angel and Sidney Williamson-Wheat, Sisters, Deborah El and Rita Thomas (Stanley), Brother, James Jackson (Armanda), in-laws Paul and Earlene Williamson. A host of nieces, nephews and cousins. God-parents Leroy and Gloria Dunning, Chester family Joe and Christine Bailey and the entire family.
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