David N. Fornoff

David Nelson Fornoff, 84, of Havana, passed away at his home at 10:54 a.m. on Wednesday, October 7, 2026. He was born on January 25, 1942, in Pekin, Illinois, to Nelson Henry and Melora B. (Burgett) Fornoff.

Dave is survived by his children, Grant (Kim) Fornoff of Kilbourne, Shelley (James) Scaggs of Glen Carbon, and Mark (Karen) Fornoff of Havana; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; siblings, James Fornoff of Havana and Laurel Ann (Leon) Finch of Suwanee, Georgia; and longtime companion, Donna Russell. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandson, Clayton Fornoff.
Dave was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bath. He founded and owned Fornoff Fertilizer in 1962, building the business from the clothes on his back. After approximately 35 years of building and working at Fornoff Fertilizer Service, Inc., Dave expanded his love for agriculture by adding farming to his many accomplishments, an endeavor in which he also found success.
Dave was a dedicated supporter of his community, always willing to give his time, financial support, and even his employees’ time whenever a need arose. His generosity could be seen at nearly every Kilbourne Celebration, where his business had its beginnings. He chaired numerous committees for town celebrations, school functions, and agricultural organizations. Dave had a soft spot for anyone in need and was always willing to lend a helping hand wherever it was needed.
He was a pilot and member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, a charter member of the Kilbourne Fire Department, and a Balyki Optimist. He also served as past president of the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association and remained on its board for several years. He was a member of the Western Illinois Tractor Club.
Outside of his work and community involvement, Dave enjoyed hunting, spending time outdoors, and taking drives—especially when they gave him a chance to check on the crops. Above all, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all those who helped care for Dave.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Hurley Funeral Home in Havana. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bath, with visitation one hour prior to the service, beginning at 10:00 a.m. Rev. Brian Lesemann will officiate. Burial will follow the service at St. John’s Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made in Dave’s name to the Kilbourne Fire Department or Grace Lutheran Academy. Online condolences may be left for his family at www.hurleyfh.com.
Hurley Funeral Home in Havana is in charge of arrangements.