David Lee Pankoke

David Lee Pankoke, 77 years old, of Plainfield passed away on 13 March 2023. He was preceded by his wife Diane Pankoke, his parents Robert Pankoke and Loretta Cofer, brother Robert Jon Pankoke, and sister Diana L. Jeffries. He is survived by his son David A. (Amelia) Pankoke and their children Alexander Keiji Pankoke and Maleah Kei Pankoke, as well as Diane’s daughter Sara Gabbard.

David was born in Waukegan, Illinois on 1 May 1945. Early in David’s life his family moved to Truckee, California, living on the shore of Donner Lake. David graduated from Tahoe Truckee High School graduating in 1963 followed by a year at Sierra College before enlisting in the United States Army. David’s basic training was at Ft. Ord. David initially enlisted in aircraft maintenance and applied for Warrant Officer School in Ft. Rucker, Alabama. David was assigned to 25th Infantry “E” Company 752 Maintenance in Cu Chi, Vietnam after completion of Flight School. David ended his career in the Army after his one-year tour to Vietnam and left the Army with an Honorable Discharge at the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 2. David earned several awards during his time in Vietnam including, but not limited to, Air Medal with 8 oak leaf clusters, Army Commendation Medal and the Bronze Star.

David came to Indianapolis and joined the Marion County Sheriff’s Department on 1 January 1971. David was employed for the “Greater Indianapolis Helicopter Program” operated by both the Sheriff’s Department and Indianapolis Police Department jointly. When the Sheriff’s Department left the program, David continued in the department being assigned patrol duties as a Sergeant. David stayed in the department for 35 years, retiring 30 June 2006 at the rank of Deputy Chief.

David enjoyed travelling, including camping in his RV around the country as well as taking cruises on the Disney Cruise Line with Diane. David was active with the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association and a member of the American Legion.