David Ray Serfas

David Ray Serfas was a beloved husband, father, brother, and grandfather during his wonderful 71 years of life. He passed away peacefully while surrounded by loved ones at his home on October 20 in Wirtz, VA after fighting a brave battle against pancreatic cancer. David was the husband of Jeanne L. (Heintzelman) Serfas.

David was born in Hazelton, PA as one of six children to Russell and Sarah Serfas. A graduate of East Stroudsburg High School in 1969, David attended Marion Institute in Georgia before entering the Air Force Academy and subsequently graduating with a degree in electrical engineering in 1974. 

David faithfully served in the United States AirForce for 20 years as a c141 pilot. In addition to working in the AirForce, David spent several years managing the family farm operations in Nazareth, PA. After farming, Dave became member of the Sacred Heart Hospital technology department before officially retiring in 2013. Upon retirement, David excitedly moved to Smith Mountain Lake, VA, fulfilling his dream of living on the lake to spend his days fishing. 

David was a man of many talents and passions. Anyone who knew him knew that he went “all in” on his hobbies. He would become an expert in the various topics, from wood working, to radio-controlled collections, model farm-toys, coin collecting, gun collecting, photography and so many more. David was also an avid musician. He took great pride performing the tenor trombone in high school before eventually settling into the bass trombone role in the Nazareth Community Band where is also served on the board. He performed in the Air Force Academy Drum and Bugle Corp.  David was also very committed to the Nazareth Moravian Music program, playing in the orchestra and spent many years as the director of the Brass Choir. In addition to his brass playing skills, David was a talented vocalist, participating in the Glee Choir at the Academy and as a member of various community and church groups in his adulthood. David shared his passion for music with his children and could be found in the audience for every band concert and marching band competition. He continued to nurture the love of music in his grandchildren, carving handmade drumsticks for the drum enthusiast and providing assorted beginning toy instruments that were quite the noisemakers. 

David was also a devoted member and philanthropist to many organizations. He was a FreeMason of the 32nd degree. He served the Nazareth Moravian Church on the Board of Elders and led the Music and Worship Committee for many years. 

David is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Jeanne L. (Heintzelman). He is fondly remembered by his son Jeffrey of Coplay and wife Amy (Grace) with their children, Parker, Henry and Abigail; and daughter Kelly Serfas of Nazareth. He is predeceased by his older brother Jonathan of East Stroudsburg. Surviving siblings are Bonnie Hummel of Philadelphia, PA; Terri Lee Walton of Wirtz, VA; Kathy Kanouse of Niagara Falls, NY; and Heidi of , NJ. In addition, in addition to many nieces, nephews and cousins. 

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Moravian Music Foundation and the Nazareth Community Band. Services will be private. 

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Smith Mountain Lake, is assisting the family.