Columbus, OH – David A. Brumbaugh, 77, of Arcanum, Ohio, passed away on June 18, 2025. Born on August 5, 1947, in Greenville, Ohio. David lived a life deeply rooted in family, hard work, and a lifelong passion for horses and farming.
David dedicated 15 years of his professional life to Delco Moraine, where he was known for his reliability and strong work ethic. However, it was in the fields and on the track where David truly found his calling. A devoted horseman of the Standardbred breed for over five decades, he was a trainer, driver and owner who not only excelled in his craft but also generously shared his knowledge. His guidance helped many aspiring horsemen learn the intricacies of training and driving – a legacy that continues through those he mentored to include his son Greg, and his grandson Tyler, who are following in David’s love of Standardbred horse training and driving.
In addition to his equestrian pursuits, David was a farmer throughout most of his life, he focused primarily on hay production. He took great pride in teaching young people across Darke County how to bale hay properly – lessons that extended beyond agriculture into values of discipline and perseverance.
David’s quick wit and love for teasing were trademarks of his personality. With an impeccable ability to deliver a joke with a straight face, he brought laughter and lightness to those around him. His humor was matched by a deep devotion to his family.
He is survived by his beloved wife Christine of 33 years; daughter Lora Jo Cook (Duane), along with their children, Tyler and Seth and great-granddaughter Lennon; son, Greg Brumbaugh (Del), along with Gregs children and stepchildren, Trevor (Alexis) and Nick Brumbaugh, Austin and Kaiden Stewart. David also leaves behind his sister, Judy Warner (Dean); brothers, Marvin Brumbaugh (Kay), Mark Brumbaugh (Terri); sister-in-law, Lynn Brumbaugh, wife of his late brother Ronnie Brumbaugh. David was extremely close to his sister-in-law and their family, Beth Simons (Steve) as they shared a love of Standardbred horses, sharing stables at the Darke County Fairgrounds, as well as brother-in-law, Lane Brown (Dawn). David also loved to spend time with his numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
David was preceded in death by his parents, David and Mary (Wackler) Brumbaugh; brother, Ronnie Brumbaugh; and parents-in-law, Myron and Jean Brown.
A man of many talents and unwavering dedication to both his family and community. David will be remembered as a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched – on the farm fields he worked so diligently and in every lap taken by those horses he trained with care.
May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.
Visitation for David will be on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, from 5-8 p.m. at Kreitzer Funeral Home, 204 N. Main St., Arcanum, OH 45304. Funeral service will be on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Pitsburg Church of the Brethren, 8376 Pitsburg-Laura Rd. Arcanum, OH 45304.
If you wish to make a donation instead of flowers, please donate to St. Jude’s, the American Heart Association or the American Lung Association. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.kreitzerfuneralhome.com.