Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

June 12, 2023

CHARLOTTE – David J. Pfleeger passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 12, 2023.  He was born on April 8, 1949 in Woodbury, NJ to Walter Clarke Pfleeger and Lucile Harkness Pfleeger.

David was raised in Glassboro, NJ.  He was particularly proud to be inducted into the Glassboro NJ High School Hall of Distinguished Graduates for his career as a musician, soldier, businessman, and for community service in the areas of the arts and education.  He attended the University of Miami on a full cello scholarship.  While on active duty, he earned his Masters degree in Business Administration from Webster University (with honors).  He also graduated from the Command and General Staff College (CGSC), which confers a Master of Military Art and Science (MMAS).

David had a distinguished career as an officer in the US Army, Field Artillery for 22 years. His assignments included 101^st Airborne and 82^nd Airborne Divisions.  Among many honors, he had been awarded the Bronze Star and Legion of Merit.  He served in Operation Desert Shield and Storm with the 18^th FA Brigade.  Following his return, he was awarded the Croix de Guerre, France’s highest honor, for his actions that saved lives.  His last duty assignment was Garrison Commander of Ft. Chaffee, AK.  He enjoyed two tours in Italy and became fluent in Italian while partnering with the Italian military and NATO.  He retired as a Lt. Colonel.

After retiring from the military, David started his career as a project manager in Charlotte, NC. He rose to President and CEO, and he led the company’s effort to enter the healthcare market.  David was a frequent speaker on healthcare topics at forums such as American College of Healthcare Executives.  He continued working as a director and consultant in project management focusing on schools, universities, public buildings, and healthcare.  David was a member of Project Management Institute (PMI) Carolina Chapter, which supported the Onward to Opportunity (O2O) program at Fort Bragg/Liberty.  He provided mentoring and training for transitioning service members, veterans and military spouses.

David, known as a devoted family man, affectionately known as “Gramps,” enjoyed weekend grilling, as well as adventures with his grandchildren and his dog, Maggie, at Lake Lure.  He also showed pride in his Charlotte community.  David enjoyed attending Charlotte Hornets, Carolina Panthers, and Charlotte Knights games.  He attended and supported the arts including the Charlotte Symphony and served on the board of Opera Carolina.  David was an active member of the Metrolina Business Council (MBC) for many years.  He supported many charitable organizations including the Charlotte Rescue Mission and Tunnels to Towers.  David/Dad/Gramps will be truly missed by all who loved him.

David is survived by his wife, Santina, of 51 years; his children, Michelle and Kimberly; twin grandsons, Russell and Phillip; niece, Sharon, and nephew, Roy.  Also surviving are his 101-year-old mother, Lucile.  He was preceded in death by his father, W. Clarke Pfleeger, and sister, Karen Pfleeger Smith.

A graveside service will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, June 29, 2023, at Elmwood Cemetery, 700 W. 6^th Street, Charlotte, NC.

Memorials may be offered in memory of David to the Charlotte Rescue Mission, PO Box 33000, Charlotte, NC 28233 or Tunnels to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10306.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.