David E. Tackett, 76, of Monticello, Indiana, died unexpectedly at 2:51 a.m. on Monday, June 29, 2026.

Dave was born on Sunday, December 18, 1949, in Salem, Indiana to Donovan B. "Don" and Nettie Adeline (Paxton) Tackett. They both preceded him in death.

On Friday, March 1, 1996, in Nashville, Tennessee he married Patty Feldt. She survives.

Dave was born and raised in Salem, Indiana. He was a 1968 graduate of Twin Lakes High School of Monticello, Indiana. Dave enlisted in the United States Marine Corps right out of high school serving during Vietnam. He had worked for 20 plus years and retired from U.S. Steel in Gary, Indiana. He later drove dump trucks and worked for INDOT, retiring in 2013. Dave was a member of the Monticello Fraternal Order of the Eagle Aerie #2570, the VFW Post #2231 both of Monticello, Indiana, and an active member of the Monticello Veteran Honor Guard. He was known for his hunting and fishing skills and enjoyed them when he was able. Dave truly loved spending time with his family, friends, and gossiping at the Eagles.

Dave was survived by his wife, Patty Tackett of Monticello, Indiana; children, Kurt Zarse of Monticello, Indiana, and Kyle (wife Dusti) Zarse of Monticello, Indiana; sister, Donna Tackett of McCordsville, Indiana. 

Dave was preceded in death by parents and daughter, Tracey Zarse.

Per Dave's wishes no public visitation or services will be rendered.

Private family services will be conducted at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be given to Monticello Veterans Honor Guard of Monticello, Indiana. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home or can be mailed to the American Legion Post #81 of 405 E. Washington St., Monticello, Indiana 47960, C/O Monticello Veterans Honor Guard.

Deibels Funeral Home is honored and blessed to be assisting the family; memories, messages, and photos of condolences can be made at www.deiblesfh.com