David J. Huffman Sr., 77 of Salem, died Tuesday Morning, March 24, 2015 in the emergency room of Salem Regional Medical Center. He was born on June 15, 1937 in Canton, Ohio, son of the late Dorence Maurice and Helen B. (Green) Huffman. He was a 27 year member of the Salem City Fire Department from 1964 to 1991, He also was owner of D & L Custom Vans until just recently when he closed it. A US Navy Veteran from 1956 to 1959. He was a devout Christian, and trusted the Lord to protect him and his fellow fire fighters as they would serve our city with only the finest protection around. a former member of the Salem First Friends Church and a current member of 16 years, serving on the board and assisted in the remodel of the Crossroads Ministries in Salem. He had an appreciation for music and liked to hear live guitar music. David entered his work from D & L Vans in shows and won awards for his custom work. He was known all over for his master craftsmanship on vans. One of his last great works was a trolley out of Oil City, Pa. that he fixed up and made it look sharp. David was a man who enjoyed helping others. His ability in building, remodeling and in general pride in all that he did was recognized by many. The stories that he could share from the days aboard ships in service to the many fires and heroic rescues by the fire department. He then later reflected back on the vans and other vehicles he did and could show many pictures in albums of them. He was a collector of many articles about the USS Sargo, his business, and the department. He loved eagles, vans and cars. David was one of the crew of the USS Sargo, the third submarine to visit the north pole, and surfaced there after traveling 2744 miles under the arctic ice pack in 14 days and 21 hours. He is survived by a son David J. Huffman Jr, of North Benton, siblings, Linda L. Huffman of Lisbon, William (Jenny) Huffman of Winona, and Richard (Ann) Huffman of Salem and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister and brother-in-law Beverly (John) Carlariello. Services will be on Saturday, 11 AM, March 28, at the Arbaugh-Pearce-Greenisen & Sons Funeral and Cremation Services. The Rev. Pete Fowler and Rev. Freddie Rodriguez will be officiating and burial will immediately follow the services at Hope Cemetery. A time of visitation will be held one hour prior to the services. The Salem Fire Department and fellow retired fire fighters will be assisting in the services and honor Mr. Huffman for his bravery and Service.