Phillip D. “Dave” Hodge

Phillip D. “Dave” Hodge of O’Fallon, Missouri, passed Thursday, March 8, 2018, at the age of 66.  Beloved son of the late James Robert and Betty Jean Hodge; devoted father of Ann (Matthew) Kniker and Sabrina (Jason) Hodge Dyer; cherished grandfather of Kyle (Kayla) Dyer, Zoe Hodge Dyer, Gabe Kniker, Theryn Hodge Dyer, Alex Kniker, Finnley Hodge Dyer, and Beckett Kniker; treasured great-grandfather of Kimberly Dyer and Kollyn Dyer; dear brother of James "Eddie" (Cherie) Hodge, Sheila Schrader, and Margaret "Peggy" (Alan) Harrell.  Phillip is also survived by his beloved Jack Russel Rat Terrier, Rascal.

Dave proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, and then later joined the VFW Post 2866 Color Guard to honor fallen veterans.  He dedicated more than 20 years as a mechanic and auto body repairman for his business Bob’s Auto Body that he co-owned with his father.  He continued working as a mechanic before he retired. With his love of cars, he became a Crew Chief for a NHRA Drag Racing Team.

Dave was a Jack-of-all-Trades, and would do anything for anyone; he never knew a stranger.  He was a proud gun enthusiast. He was also an avid coin collector.  He was known for his strong-willed nature, but was kind to everyone he knew.  More than anything, Dave loved spending time with his family.  He was dearly loved, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Memorial contributions may be made to Disabled Veterans of America.