David Matthew Oreskovich was born on September 19, 1969, and passed away on July 31, 2026, leaving behind countless memories, full hearts, and a world that’s just a little less funny.

David grew up in Pensacola, Florida, before eventually making Huntsville, Alabama, his home. While he wore many hats throughout his life, his favorite roles were husband, dad, brother, uncle, and, most proudly, “Pawpaw.” Family wasn’t just important to David—it was everything. If you were lucky enough to be part of his circle, you knew you always had a place at his table and in his heart.

A talented chef by trade and by passion, David served as Executive Chef at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center before retiring. He had a gift for turning simple ingredients into unforgettable meals, but more importantly, he knew that the best part of any recipe was the people gathered around the table. Whether he was frying up his famous eggplant, making a big pot of his legendary goulash, or serving his always-requested lasagna, David’s love language was feeding the people he loved. He believed food tasted better when shared, especially if there was plenty of laughter served alongside it.

And laughter? David had that covered. He never missed an opportunity to crack a joke, tell a story, or lovingly give someone a hard time. He had an uncanny ability to make people laugh—even when they were trying not to. If there are kitchens in heaven, there’s a good chance he’s already taken over, seasoning everything “by feel” and convincing everyone his way is the right way.

David is survived by his loving wife, Lisa Oreskovich; his daughter, Amber Oreskovich; his son, Jordan Oreskovich; his beloved and only granddaughter, Brinleigh Brown, who brought him endless pride and joy; his sisters, Shari Wood and Susan Oreskovich; his brothers, Steven Oreskovich and Larry Oreskovich; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews who will all miss his humor, generosity, and larger-than-life personality.

He was preceded in death by his father, Steven Oreskovich; his mother, Linda Schutz; his grandmother, Billie Jean “Nonnie” Schutz; and his grandfather, John Matthew Schutz, for whom he was proudly named.

Although David’s chair at the table is now empty, his recipes, stories, laughter, and love will continue to fill every family gathering. The greatest way to honor him is to share a meal, tell a funny story, hug your family a little tighter, and maybe add a little extra butter—because David probably would have.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., at the home of his daughter:

205 Vintage Point Circle

Huntsville, AL 35811

Come as you are. Bring your favorite David story, laugh a little louder than usual, and come hungry. We’ll celebrate the man who believed every problem looked a little smaller around a full table, and who never let anyone leave his house without a full stomach and a smile. That’s exactly how he would’ve wanted to be remembered.