David Ray McMinn

Fairbury - David Ray McMinn, 79, passed away at 10:29 p.m. on October 9, 2026, at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center in Bloomington, after a long courageous battle with COPD.

Mr. McMinn was born on August 13, 1947 in Peru, IN, the son of Ray and Margaret (Brown) McMinn. On May 9, 1967, Dave married the love of his life, Diane Huston, beginning a marriage that spanned nearly six decades. They shared a great love for one another, weathering storms and creating many wonderful memories together. Diane survives him in Fairbury.

Also surviving is his only child, beloved daughter, Missy McMinn, and her partner, Dr. Becky Bosetski, of Appleton, WI. He was also a cherished part of the lives of Fiona, Paxton, and Piper, Missy and Becky’s three children, whom he loved as his step-grandchildren.

He is further survived by his cherished siblings: Ed McMinn of Lincoln, Melinda (Hervel) Williams of Pontiac; Dennis (Ann) McMinn of Chenoa; Jan (Forrest) Miles of Pontiac, Il. and finally, Dan McMinn of Fairbury. Dan was not only his brother, but his best friend. He played an integral role in caring for Dave during this past year and has been a huge support for Diane and Missy. Lastly he is survived by his beloved 4-legged companion of 16 years, Fritz.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Ray and Margaret McMinn, his sister-in-law, Terri McMinn, and his brother-in-law, Ronnie Huston. Dave spent four years in the United States Navy, and proudly served his country in the Vietnam War. Being a Vietnam Veteran was a source of great pride for him.

One of Dave’s greatest passions was playing golf. He was an exceptional golfer who consistently maintained a very low handicap and had the opportunity to play at some of the finest clubs across the country. Dave and Diane also loved traveling, taking trips to many cities throughout the United States. He enjoyed fishing and loved watching sports, especially the Chicago Cubs (he was disappointed that they tanked it this year, once again).

Dave’s life was shaped by his love for his family and the memories they created together. He will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him, and his memory will live on in the hearts of his family.

There will be a visitation from 2:00 to 4:00pm, Sunday, October 18, 2026 at Duffy-Pils Memorial Home, Fairbury. A memorial service will be held at 4:00 pm also at the funeral home in Fairbury. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to Livingston County Humane Society, Pontiac or the family of David R. McMinn.