David Lane Vessell

David Vessell, beloved chemist and educator, died November 6, 2023, surrounded by his loving family at Franciscan Hospice House in Indianapolis. He was 71 years old. A lifelong science lover, David was born David Lane Vessell on October 29, 1952, in Evansville to parents Charles Owen Vessell, Jr. and Marilynn Wathen Vessell. His love of science led to a Bachelors degree in chemistry at the University of Evansville in 1974, followed by the more challenging Masters degree in biochemistry at Ohio State University in 1977. He began his career at Sigma Chemical before working as a chemist at Eli Lilly. It was then he met his kindred spirit, Nancy L. Wainscott, a pharmacist. They married December 16, 1990, at Eastside Baptist Church in Evansville. They had a lovely daughter, Emilee Vessell Quinlan (Ben). Friends and family say it was the perfect union for 32 years, from the moment they met till death did they part. When his daughter started school, he realized that he wanted to help children learn science through hands-on activities. That led to his becoming a high school science teacher and creating science activities for all ages. He retired as a biochemist at IU Riley in December 2018. Beyond his professional life, his lifelong passion was keeping his wide circle of friends close. He simply loved life and shared this warmth with those he loved. His smile and positive outlook will be remembered by all who knew him. David is mourned not only by his wife and daughter but by his two siblings, Gary Owen Vessell (Nancy) of Phoenix, Arizona, and Jonathan Lee Vessell (Wanda) of Evansville, as well as nieces and nephews, his extended family, and many close friends. His parents preceded him in death. Services will be held at 1 PM Monday, November 13, 2023 in Moster Mortuary, 334 N. Main, Rushville. Rev. Jeff Stratton will preside. Friends are welcome to visit the family from 11 AM until time of service on Monday. Burial will follow in the Arlington East Hill Cemetery. David will be so dearly missed by all. In place of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in his honor to the Arbor Day Foundation. "Come to the woods, for here is rest." —John Muir

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David Lane Vessell

October 29, 1952 - November 6, 2023