David Allen Sierk

David (Dave) Allen Sierk Sr. passed away June 6, 2025, at the age of 68. He was born September 12, 1956, in Knoxville, TN - the second, and certainly most disruptive, of three children - to Dr. Herbert and Carolyn Sierk. He spent many years in Illinois and most summers piled into the back of an International Scout touring the country with his family while his father led scientific research expeditions. He graduated from Union University in Jackson, TN in 1978, and met his wife, Shari, during their short-lived careers in college recruiting. They married in 1982 and made North Carolina their home. They would have celebrated their 43rd wedding anniversary on June 26th. Eventually, Dave and Shari moved to Saluda, NC where they lived and raised their three “hooligans’ children for 29 years. He loved Saluda, and worked hard to ensure it remained a special place in the world.

Throughout his life he was many things. He was an adventurer and outdoor enthusiast who loved hiking, climbing and sailing. A die-hard UNC basketball fan. A storyteller who never let the truth get in the way of a good punchline. And, somehow, an eternal optimist who believed doing the right thing would lead to good things. He was a loyal and dedicated husband and father. He coached his kids' sports teams, and he famously never missed a single basketball, football or soccer game. The same cannot be said for every wedding anniversary. But at his core, he was a coach and a teacher who loved helping others be the best versions of themselves.

He taught us the importance of character, honor and doing the right thing. He taught us to be confident and ambitious. He taught us to be resilient and persistent. He never called it this, but it was the Dave Sierk formula for success: Live with integrity, be confident in yourself and resilient in adversity. Over the years, he taught these lessons to more people than we can count. And, in the words of Jimmy V, he gave us the greatest gift anyone could give another person, he believed in us. Though he didn’t get as many years as we believe he deserved, he spent the ones he was given admirably - with integrity, confident in his values, and steadfast in his love for his family. Thank you for believing in us.

He is preceded in death by his parents - Dr. Herbert and Carolyn Sierk He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Shari, three children; David Sierk II, his wife Katy and their son David (Tripp) Sierk III, Elizabeth Sierk, her husband Jason Costin, and Matthew “Goldenboy” Sierk, his wife Jennifer and their son Crew Sierk. His siblings, Ruthann Taylor, her husband Ronny, and Philip Sierk, his wife Vilma and an untold number of people that benefited from his wisdom and optimism.

A private celebration of his life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers or donations.

We ask that you take a moment to tell someone you believe in them, and Go Heels.

Online condolences may be made at www.gordonfuneralservice.com

Gordon Funeral Service and Crematory, 1904 Lancaster Ave, Monroe, NC 28112 is honored to be entrusted to care for the Sierk Family.