David Isaac Placer, 66

David Isaac Placer, 66, died peacefully at Health Center Northwest after a long and courageous battle with diabetes. David was born into the Jewish faith on Oct. 20, 1940, in Brooklyn, N.Y., and graduated from Brooklyn Vocational Tech in 1957.

David served six years in the National Guard. He then worked as an auto mechanic at a Sunoco service station, quickly took over ownership and purchased two more service stations in New York and New Jersey.

In 1975, David founded Hobbymasters Inc. to expand and share his love of hobbies. By 1980, he had purchased a much larger building and moved Hobbymasters to its current location in Red Bank, N.J., where it still is operated by David's family today.

David recognized Jesus as the Messiah, of whom he had been told, and chose to follow Him. He was baptized at Trinity Bible Church in Phoenix. His passionate devotion as a believer was evident as he ministered to everyone who would listen. He was involved in many churches after moving to Montana, was an avid reader, and had a unique gift of drawing even the quietest person into conversation.

While battling diabetes and kidney failure, David continued to work on computers and enjoyed his Ham radio friends. David lost his battle with diabetes and kidney failure March 3, 2007. His warm, fun-loving spirit will be missed. "He is now at peace with his Lord and Savior."

David was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Placer and Anne Weissman.

Survivors include his aunt, Ruth Fuhrer, of Manhattan, N.Y.; uncle, Jerry Weissman, of Manhattan; and sister, Tema Brodsky, of Long Island, N.Y. David was a very devoted father to his three children and shared his love of trains and model railroading with them. He will be missed by his children, son Robert Placer and wife, Katrina, of Trenton, N.J.; daughter, Dawn Yuter, and husband, Greg, of Perkasie, Pa.; and son Alan Placer and wife, Amanda, of Fair Haven, N.J. David is also survived by his beloved grandsons, Connor Placer and Aaron Yuter. He leaves behind many friends and family throughout the country.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 10, at Lakeside Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations on David's behalf to the American Diabetes Association.