David Claude Denson, 73, of Sorento, died on Friday, April 17, 2026, unexpectedly at his home.
A memorial service will be held in his honor on Saturday, May 16, at 2 p.m. at the Sorento Community Building, located at 105 East Taylor St. in Sorento, followed by a potluck meal. Meat, desserts and drinks will be provided. Bring a story to share, if one feels inclined.
Mr. Denson was born on Nov. 2, 1952, to Harold Ray and Mary Ellen (Starbuck) Denson in Alton. He married Melodie Yvonne Shive in Las Vegas, NV, on Nov. 11, 1988.
Mr. Denson graduated from Wood River High School in 1970. He also earned a degree from Gem City Jeweler’s College in Quincy. During his life, he worked for Olin Corporation, Holiday Shores, R. P. Lumber and RTS Packing in Litchfield.
Mr. Denson enjoyed traveling, camping, fishing, mushroom hunting and collecting artifacts and antiques. He could repair almost anything. He was a loving husband and father and especially loved playing with his grandsons. He was known to be generous, kind and helpful; Mr. Denson will be missed by his many friends.
Mr. Denson was preceded in death by his parents, maternal grandparents Myron and Dorthea Starbuck, who raised him; his brother, Myron Hanley; and his sisters Cindy Tino and Dolly Squires.
Mr. Denson is survived by his wife; son Aaron (Libby) Denson; grandsons Jackson and Christopher; daughter Laura (J.D.) Richardson; grandson Jimi; sisters Barbara Bradshaw, Mary Ellen “Cissy” Gibbs and Barbara Little; and sister-in-law Rene Collins.
Donations in his memory may be mailed to Sunnyside Cemetery, PO Box 267, Sorento, IL 62086; St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memorial Giving, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959 / www.stjude.org; or a charity of the donor’s choice. The family has entrusted Assalley Funeral Home in Greenville with the arrangements. Please visit www.assalleyfuneralhomes.com to share memories or offer condolences to the family.
