David Allan “Bubba” Birky, 64 of Valparaiso, passed away suddenly Monday, June 8, 2026. He was born on March 27, 1962 in Valparaiso, the son of Vernon Ray and Shirley Ann (Hopkins) Birky. Bubba graduated from Valparaiso High School and earned a football scholarship at the University of Illinois. While at Illinois, he played on the offensive line and was fortunate enough to play in a Rose Bowl and a Fiesta Bowl. Bubba was an avid sports fan and loved cats, especially his own Zeke and Mazzy. Above all else, he loved Jesus and all his family and friends.
David is survived by his brother, Mike (Cindy) Birky; sister, Terry Davis; nieces and nephews, Josh (Jennifer) Davis, Cherish (Stephen) DeLeon, Jordan (Ashley) Davis, and Sara (Jeff) Szarley; great nieces and nephews, Triniti Davis, Lucille Smith, Saraphina DeLeon, Addison Davis, Hunter Davis, Lillian Szarley, and Leah Szarley; and many extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Shirley and niece, Mary Grace Birky.
A private graveside service was held at Hopewell Mennonite Cemetery, Kouts. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Hopewell Mennonite Church in Kouts.
GUESTBOOK
So Sorry, David was a great friend, from 7th grade to 12th. Played sports with and he helped us on family farm. He always had a smile and always a joy to be around. I pray that Jesus welcomes you home David. Relationship, pray, talk, glorify, surrender. I love you David, -Kurt Gesse
Bubba was such a kind and wonderful guy. I remember he always had a ready smile and a cheerful disposition. He was a good friend to all, full of encouragement. I am praying for your family. May God comfort all who know and love you. Someday Heaven, Love in Christ. -Caroline Hefner Busch
Bubba you will be missed by all but my condolences go out to all your family, relatives and friends. You were a mountain of a man that had a smile and a laugh that was contagious. May you Rest In Peace my Friend and football Brother! -Todd Van Keppel
I am truly sorry to hear of Bub's passing. While I only was fortunate enough to run into him a few times over the past years, he always treated me like a long lost friend. He had such a beautiful, warm, and welcoming soul since the first time I met him. My deepest sympathies to his family and all who held him dear. This world has lost a wonderful man! May his new journey bring him many magnificent journeys to explore and follow! -Christopher Daly
Bubba was one of my first friends in the neighborhood, so many memories. Rest in peace my friend. -Matthew Miller
Godspeed, Brother. -Charles Collins
Mike, Terri and Families, I am so sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. Sending my thoughts and prayers. -Donna Birky Mitzner
I first learned of Bubba in a 6th grade basketball game. It was Cooks Corners vs Hayes Leonard. Going into the game - we had heard of a monster of a “child” and it was true!! He dominated us and gave me the worst “Charlie-horse” I have ever received in my life - I was out for the rest of the game. The legend continued to grow! Then - I ultimately became a very good friend of Bubba’s through lifting weights, training together and becoming a close teammate on the gridiron and bball court. Ultimately, we became fellow co-captains on the football team our senior year. What can I say? Great friend, teammate, competitor and most importantly GREAT person! This hurts all of us who knew him for sure!! Rest in Peace my friend - Arnie Brown
Oh Man, I am crushed to hear of Daves passing, he was such a great guy and friend. It seems like yesterday we were in 3rd grade at Hayes Leonard playing football in the snow at recess. Lots of memories playing basketball and football with Bubba growing up, we played biddy basketball at the Y and all thru Jr high...wow such a huge loss for all. RIP Bubba, you were a great guy, this brings tears to my eyes...love ya pal. -Tim Selby or Selb's as he called me 🙂
