David Randolph Lehman, 65, of Ottawa, passed away Friday, July 24, 2026 at his home. Seals-Campbell Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements and cremation rites.

David was born August 16, 1960, in Pocatello, ID, to Marta Ann (Weiss) and Dr. Norman Lehman, PHD.

David grew up in Tucson, AZ and loved hiking-exploring the desert. He was a free spirit who enjoyed life. He loved being outdoors, hiking, tent camping, and visited several National Parks during his lifetime. He was especially fond of Yosemite. A 15 or 20 mile hike was no challenge for him and he constantly brought home many treasures!!

He was especially fond (as the rest of his family) of the Arizona Wildcats. He loved college football and always looked forward to football season.

David loved animals and had several dogs and cats over his lifetime. He even had a pet raccoon that he would place in the bathtub and feed Cheerios!

David was very intelligent and an expert in History, Geology, Geography, Trains and several other subjects. He had his own unique vernacular (Lehmans know what I mean!). He was an avid reader, building a library of 10,000 + books (yes, he read them all). He was also an avid collector of HO scale trains and anything else that suited his fancy.

David was very generous-whether he had a little or a lot -he was always willing to share. He was always willing and happy to assist others, fixing cars, home repairs, giving rides, picking up and delivering pet donations…. whatever the phone call required.

He was always there with a quick-witted joke or to light up a smoke.

David “Uncle Mustache” is survived by his other half of 36 years, April J. Denham; his siblings, Michael (Carla) Lehman, Robin (Bart) Bartelson, Amy Lehman and Jon (Kelly) Lehman; his nieces and nephews, Elena, Mika, Yaya Marie, Eric, Daniel, Amy, Drew and Zach; several grand-nieces and nephews; cousins, Linnea Fritch, Tucker Fritch, and Geneva Fritch; and extended family, Robin (Kerry) Taylor, Dawn (Jim) Denham, Iris (Bill) Cunico and James “JD” Denham.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents, beloved aunt, Nancy Lehman; beloved, Janell Denham; and beloved, Eric Denham.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

Seals-Campbell Funeral Home

1009 E. Bluff St., Marseilles, IL 61341

815-795-5151 www.sealscampbell.com