David A. Bullock

David A. Bullock, 89, of East Peoria, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loving family, on January 7, 2025, at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria where he and the family received excellent care and support. He was born in Peoria on August 10, 1935, to Roy and Jane (Morris) Bullock. On July 1, 1961, he married Carol Meyer at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Peoria. Dave and Carol were each other’s greatest love. They celebrated more than 63 years of marriage together; she survives. He is also survived by his 4 children, Julie (Kevin) Kilian of St. Louis, Mike (Susanne) Bullock of West Chicago, Steve (Kelly) Bullock of Madison, WI, and Ron Bullock of Peoria; 3 sisters, Sue (Joe) Thierer of Peoria, Mary Beth (Fred) Roedl of Bloomington, IN, and Theresa (Pat) Chambers of Peoria; 2 brothers, Dan (Laura) Bullock of Boston, MA and Paul Bullock of Dunlap; and 11 grandchildren: Katie, Emily, Megan, and John Kilian (Julie and Kevin); Jessica and Daniel Bullock (Mike and Susanne); Rose, Rachel, Ben, Luke, and Josh Bullock (Steve and Kelly). He was preceded in death by his brother, Fr. Gabriel Bullock, OSB; sister, Sharon Haney; and sister-in-law, Marti Bullock. Dave graduated from Spalding Institute in 1953 before earning a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Bradley University. He dedicated 40 years to research at Caterpillar, where he was known for his meticulous work ethic and innovative thinking. While he wore a shirt and tie to work, his heart was in the overalls he donned when fixing cars or tackling projects around the house. Dave’s natural curiosity and knack for problem-solving often spilled over into his daily life—no dinner table napkin was safe from one of his impromptu sketches, as he delighted in explaining how things worked. A consummate teacher, he shared his wisdom and skills generously with all who knew him. Faith and service were central to David’s life. He was a devoted member of St. Monica Catholic Church in East Peoria, where he volunteered with the St. Vincent DePaul Food Pantry and Afrishare, sang in the choir, participated in Bible study, and served two terms as President of the Parish Council. He was also a proud member of the Msgr. E. L. Grzybowski Council 7580 Knights of Columbus. Beyond his church community, David served his country in the Army Reserves for eight years, a role he carried with quiet pride. For the Bullocks, tennis is more than a sport—it is a shared passion and a family tradition. Dave learned the game from his father and passed his love for it to Carol, his children, and his grandchildren. A patient and encouraging teacher, he instilled not only the techniques of the game but also the joy and camaraderie it brings. Whether playing competitively or enjoying friendly matches with friends, Dave’s enthusiasm for tennis never waned. After long days on the court, he would reward himself with generous scoops of ice cream or a root beer float, savoring the simple pleasure of a well-earned treat. Dave found joy in life’s simple pleasures. A lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, he celebrated their victories and weathered their defeats with unwavering loyalty. Witnessing the Cubs’ long-awaited World Series win was a highlight he cherished. In addition to tennis, he enjoyed ping pong and golf, and he shared countless games of cards with his church group, family, and friends. Known for his sharp mind and quick wit, Dave often turned conversations into singalongs, as the right word or memory sparked a song he couldn’t help but share. Visitation will be from 4-6 p.m. on Friday, January 17, 2025, at Gary Deiters Funeral Home & Cremation Services in East Peoria, with a Prayer Service led by Deacon Mike Linnenbrink (nephew) beginning at 6 p.m. Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at St. Monica Catholic Church, with additional visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. at the church. Fr. John Steffen will officiate. Entombment will follow at Resurrection Mausoleum in Peoria. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Vincent DePaul, Apostolic Christian Skylines, or OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home. Online condolences may be left at www.GaryDeitersFH.com. To watch the service live-streamed, go to our Facebook page, Gary Deiters Funeral Home & Cremation Services.`

David A. Bullock

August 10, 1935 - January 7, 2025