David VanLaningham

David VanLaningham

David VanLaningham, age 79, passed away on February 11, 2026, at Gulf Coast Medical Center in Fort Myers, Florida. He was born April 24, 1946, in Terre Haute, Indiana, to James and Martha VanLaningham.

David graduated from Indiana State Lab School and Vincennes University. He spent many years working in a laboratory testing plastics for General Electric, where he was respected for his intelligence and attention to detail. Outside of work, David was known for his ability to fix, build, or repair just about anything, and friends often turned to him when something needed done right.

David proudly served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam Era and was a longtime member of the New Harmony American Legion Post 370. He was also active in the Kiwanis Club, serving for many years as chairman of the Kiwanis apple cider booth at Kunstfest. David was a longtime member of Johnson United Methodist Church in New Harmony, where his faith guided his life and service.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his parents-in-law, Carl and Helen Anderson; and a brother-in-law, Fred Anderson.

David is survived by his wife, Carlene VanLaningham; his children, Ryan, Robert, and Jim; his brother, Dale VanLaningham; his sister, Diane Leaman; his sisters-in-law, Kathy and Tammy Anderson; his chosen grandchildren, Hope Blankenberger, Frank Peterlin VII, and Faith Peterlin; and many friends in Southern Indiana and Florida.

A service of remembrance will be held at a later date for David VanLaningham.