David George Leighton

David George Leighton of Saint Charles, Missouri, passed away on June 17, 2021.

David was born August 31, 1929, in Lansing, Michigan to George Emerson and Margaret Cordelia (Burroughs) Leighton. He is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen Ann (Baldwin) Leighton; his son, Steven A. Leighton (Linda Wagner); stepsons Aaron M. Busch and Erik A. Busch (Toni); grandchildren Sarah, Ryan, Abby and Ellie Busch and generations of loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Gloria Leighton Tuller and his brother Ronald Leighton.

David proudly served his country in the United States Navy and retired from the Costa Mesa, California Police Department. He loved planes, trains, boats and cars. In fact, he loved anything with an engine and if it was diesel, that made it even better.

David earned his pilot’s license at age 16 after working at the local meat market to earn money for flying lessons which were $1. He flew charter flights for Sierra Skyways. After retirement he designed and installed the electrical systems in Dittmar & Donaldson's Yachts and captained the Pez Vella.

He loved wherever he lived from the shores of Southern California beaches to the peaceful foothills in Foresthill, California to Saint Charles, Missouri where he would marvel at living so close to the muddy Mississippi River.

Dave's life and legacy will not be forgotten.  If you'd like to honor David's memory, gifts can be made to the following: Dayspring Baptist Church at 1001 Municipal Center Dr., Town and Country, MO 63131 or the charity of your choice.