Rev.
David L. Oringderff, PhD, of Butler, Missouri, passed away on October 6, 2026,
at the age of 77 at Sunrise Care Center in Raymore, Missouri. A
visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 11:00 am Thursday, October 15, 2026 at
Mullinax Funeral Home, Butler. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 am
Thursday, also at the funeral home, with burial in Fort Scott National
Cemetery, Fort Scott, Kansas. Services under the direction of Mullinax Funeral
Home, Butler (660-679-0009). Messages of condolence may be left for the
family at www.mullinaxfuneralhome.com.
David
was born to James Verle Oringderff and Avis Mozelle “Bill” Oringderff. He
carried throughout his life the values, experiences, and relationships that
shaped him from his earliest years.
David
lived a life defined by service, compassion, and an abiding commitment to
helping others. Whether serving his country, his community, or those seeking
spiritual guidance, he gave generously of himself and left an enduring mark on
the lives of countless people.
David
proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and Operation
Desert Storm. Following his military service, he continued his dedication to
others as a law enforcement deputy in both Texas and Missouri. Service was not
simply something David did—it was a deeply held part of who he was.
For
approximately 30 years, David founded and led the Sacred Well Congregation,
where he provided spiritual support, friendship, and mentorship to military
service members, contractors, and their families. He understood the unique
burdens carried by those who serve, and he offered a listening ear, a steady
presence, and a place where people could find comfort, understanding, and
belonging.
David
also devoted himself to teaching and mentoring future spiritual caregivers. As
Chair of the Pastoral Counseling and Chaplaincy program at Cherry Hill
Seminary, he shared his knowledge, experience, and compassion with students
preparing to serve others. His influence extended far beyond the classroom
through the many people he encouraged, supported, and guided throughout his
years of ministry.
To
those who knew him, David was more than his titles, professions, or
accomplishments. He was a husband, a father, a mentor, a spiritual guide, and a
friend. He had a gift for meeting people where they were and offering them
compassion without judgment. His presence brought comfort and strength to many
who needed it.
David
also had a wonderfully irreverent sense of humor and a particular appreciation
for the versatility of the word “fuck.” He understood that, depending on the
circumstances, it could express frustration, surprise, amusement, emphasis,
affection, or simply serve as the perfect response when no other word would do.
It was one of those small, unmistakably David things that made people smile—and
one of the many reasons he was impossible to forget.
David
will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Willow; his daughter, Ida; and his
son, Shane. He was preceded in death by his son, John. He will also be
remembered with love by his extended family, friends, students, colleagues,
service members, and the many others whose lives he touched.
The
legacy David leaves is found not only in the work he accomplished, but in the
people he helped, the lives he encouraged, and the love and compassion he
shared. His years of service created a lasting circle of people who carry
something of his wisdom, kindness, and spirit with them.
May
those who knew and loved David find comfort in knowing that his life mattered
deeply, his service made a difference, and his compassion reached farther than
he may ever have known. The people he helped, taught, comforted, and encouraged
will carry his memory forward.
He will
be greatly missed, deeply loved, and forever remembered.
