David Allen Wheat, 55, of Willow Springs, Missouri, passed away on February 27, 2026. He was born on January 23, 1971, in Saint James, Missouri, to Joe and Sonja (Collins) Wheat.
David grew up in Willow Springs, where he developed his love for the outdoors and a life rooted in the land. He married Michelle Essary on April 28, 1990.
He was a jack of all trades and held many occupations throughout the years. He had a gift for building, fixing, and creating with his hands. Whether it was a home project, working on cars and four-wheelers, or helping someone with their home renovations, David could figure it out.
He loved being outdoors – hunting in the quiet woods, fishing calm waters, tending a garden, canning what the earth provided, and searching the woods each spring for morel mushrooms. Nature wasn’t just something he enjoyed; it was where he felt closest to peace. The farm was more than just property – it was home, a reflection, and a legacy.
He is survived by his wife, Michelle (Essary) Wheat; father Joe Wheat (Deloris); brother Fred Wheat (Martha); two children, Tyler Wheat (Kaela) and Rhea Cook (Dewayne); five grandchildren, Caleb Cook, Braylon Ebert, Kylie Wheat, Khloe Wheat, and Case Wheat; as well as several aunts, uncles, and nieces.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Sonja Wheat; grandparents, Fred and Zella Collins, and Lowell and Nancy Wheat.
We take comfort in knowing he is now at peace in the presence of the Lord. “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want… He restoreth my soul:” – Psalm 23.
In keeping with his wishes, David will be laid to rest on his farm in a private family burial. Arrangements were under the direction of Yarber Mortuary, Willow Springs, Missouri. Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com.
