David L. Frailey, age 82, of Valparaiso, IN, passed away on Monday, September 8, 2025. Dave was born on April 7, 1943, in Valparaiso, to Vernon and Elizabeth (Griest) Frailey. Dave graduated from Valparaiso High School in 1961. He enlisted in the Air Force where he served as a mechanic for four years. On August 19, 1972, he married Clara J. Stone. He spent most of his working years at Midwest Steel, where he worked as a crane operator until he retired in 2003. He was a member of Cornerstone Community Church in Kouts. Dave loved nothing more than spending time with family and friends, ideally over a good meal. He never met a stranger, and could talk for hours to just about anyone, especially if the subject involved motorcycles, airplanes, cars, or whatever Consumer Reports had to say about the best you-name-it on the market.
Dave endured nearly nine years of treatment for two aggressive cancers. He rarely complained, and was always thankful for the scientific advancements that extended his life and the amazing medical providers who cared for him. He was making jokes right up until the end, and always thankful to have an opportunity to live another day. He passed peacefully at home, surrounded by family.
Dave is survived by his wife, Clara, along with their daughter, Jennifer L. (Rich) Ortiz of Valparaiso, grandsons Nathan and Caleb Ortiz, brothers Tom (Robyn) Frailey of Valparaiso, Phil (Elaine) Frailey of Valparaiso, Al (Joy) Frailey of Milford, sisters Carol McColly of Valparaiso and Janet Raffauf of Indianapolis, and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers-in-law, John Rauffauf and Barney McColly.
Visitation will be from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at Moeller Funeral Home 104 Roosevelt Rd., Valparaiso, with a service beginning at 1:00 PM. Following the service Dave will be laid to rest at Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Dave’s honor to the University of Chicago’s Comprehensive Cancer Center.
GUESTBOOK
As school classmates of brother Phil and his wife Elaine, we share our sympathy for the loss of David. As the entire Frailey family journeys through life may memories of David bring smiles and warmth to your hearts! Lovingly, -John & Jane Pinkerton
Dave was our classmate at VHS. We enjoyed many class reunions visiting with Dave and Clara. So sorry about his passing but thankful for knowing him all these years. -Bennie Mitchell and Bertie Spagna
Dear Clara, I am sick about missing Dave's visitation. I had my sister and brother her until early yesterday and never read the local paper, as I do every morning, until today at 1:30pm. I would have been there in a heartbeat if I had seen the obituary sooner. I thought very highly of Dave and considered him a friend, as I do you. I liked spending time with him because he was always positive and open. We always had good laughs, I will miss him. My thoughts are with you at this devasting time, I hope you have the love and support of lots of close friends and family. Take care and hope to see you sometime, somewhere. -Ron Knight
Dear Claire, so sorry for your loss. Our deepest condolences to you and your family. May the Lord comfort you and give you His peace. Love in Christ, -Tonya (Martin) and Dale Knouse
