David "Dave" Anthony Ax, age 55, passed away on July 9th, 2026. Born on August 5th, 1970, Dave was a spark of life from the very beginning. From the day he was born, he was here to make people laugh, ensure they felt seen, and bring an irreplaceable energy into every room he entered.

Family stories fondly recall his early determination—whether it was throwing glass bottles from his crib when he was ready to get out, or loudly demanding a ride in his Pop's truck. Dave lived life on his own terms and gave everything 100%. In fact, if you were to ask him, he was easily the hardest working man in Madison County.

While his family never expected him to fully settle down, everything changed when he met his former partner, Angie, the love of his life. With Angie came her two children, Carley and Tylar. Dave immediately stepped up, effortlessly erasing the word "step" from his title; he simply did what any devoted dad would do, building an incredibly close, unbreakable bond with them. In recent years, Dave was absolutely enamored to become a grandfather, bursting with pride when Carley gave birth to his first grandbaby, Kylan Anthony, who proudly carries his grandpa's middle name.

Dave was a genuinely kind, fiercely loyal, and hilariously funny man who left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Dave was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents; his father, Robert Ax; his step-father, Mike McLean, his sister, Errin Ax; his aunt, Sharon Kinkead, and his uncle, Jim Scaturro.

His memory will be kept alive by those who survive him: his loving mother, Charolette McLean; his sister, Kim (Gary) Castelli; his brothers, Matt and Chris Ax; his daughter, Carley Dortmann; his son, Tylar Cotton; and his cherished grandson, Kylan Anthony. He is also survived by his former partner, Angie, and her loving family, with whom Dave maintained a deep and lasting bond.

He also leaves behind his nieces, Caitlyn (John) Gourley, Nikki (Nick) Procasky and Allix Jakich; his nephews, Dominic Jakich and Josh (Danielle) Castelli; his adored great-nieces and great-nephews; a host of beloved Aunts, Uncles and Cousins—including Christy Kostoff, with whom he shared a deeply special bond with throughout the years and spent much of his time over the past year—and several other extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Dave requested to be cremated and no services held. The family will hold a celebration of life on Saturday, August 15th at Venice Social Club. All friends and family are welcome to come.

Professional services entrusted to Wojstrom Funeral Home & Crematory in Granite City, IL.

Online guestbook and obituary available at  www.wojstrom.com