Dana Edward Vandiver
December 13, 1954 – October 15, 2025

Dana Edward Vandiver passed away on October 15, 2025. He was born to Victor P. and Alwilda (DeClue) Vandiver on December 13, 1954, at St. Francis Hospital in Bonne Terre, Missouri. He was a member of Grace Presbyterian Church.

After high school, Dana enlisted in the U.S. Navy, where he served proudly for 20 years. During his service, he was assigned to squadrons VP-11, VP-30, VP-44, and VP-8, as well as a short stint aboard the U.S.S. America (VS-28). He also served during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Victor and Alwilda Vandiver.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Debora Ann (Spain) Vandiver; three children, James (Merrily) Vandiver of Independence, MO; Paul Vandiver of Springfield, MO; and Stephanie (Steve) Erickson of Springfield, MO; and grandchildren Joseph, Jackson, Avery, and Jacob Vandiver, and Steven, Mical, and Liam Erickson. He is also survived by his siblings, Sherida Vandiver of Flowery Branch, GA; Gary (Donna) Vandiver of St. Albans, MO; Vickey Downey of Festus, MO; and Barry (Barb) Vandiver of Festus, MO; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

After retiring from the Navy in 1993, Dana and his family returned to Missouri. He worked for Litton Interpak Electronics for more than 20 years and later for AT&T and Hotels.com.

In his full retirement, Dana devoted his time to his family—always ready as "Uber Grandpa" to help or babysit one of his beloved grandchildren. He had many hobbies and interests, often found at his computer developing old operating systems or chatting with friends online. He also enjoyed woodworking, stained glass, and creating designs with his laser engraving projects. He loved bowling with his team on Wednesday night league.  Dana loved traveling with his wife and family, taking several cruises over the past two decades.

Dana loved God, his family, and his country fiercely.

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 14, 2025, from 4:00–8:00 p.m. at American Legion Post 639, 2660 S. Scenic Ave, Springfield, MO. Military Honors will be rendered at 4:30 PM.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Midwest Cremation and Funeral Services of Springfield, MO.