David H. Slayback III, 76

David H. Slayback III, 76, of Bethany Beach, Del., passed away Thursday, June 4, 2009, at his daughter’s home in Davidsonville, Md. He received an associate’s degree in animal husbandry from Alfred State College and completed training at the Cornell University Blacksmith School. He served in the U.S. Army and retired from Duplex Products, where he worked as warehouse manager.

Slayback was involved as a driver, trainer and owner of harness horses for most of his life. He raced throughout the U.S. and Canada and continued to drive racehorses into his 70s. He was respected for his ethical standards and his patience and touch with young horses. An avid outdoorsman and animal lover, he had a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature. He was a voracious reader who also enjoyed Dixieland, swing and gospel music. He was a faithful member of Mariner’s Bethel U.M. Church in Ocean View and active in the Lord Baltimore Lion’s Club. Kind and generous, he was a friend to all and constantly reached out to others in Christian love.

The Slaybacks, after raising two daughters in Verona, N.J., and opening their home and hearts to many along the way, retired to Bethany Beach in 1992. Devoted dad and brother, loving grandpa, caring friend and neighbor, he will be deeply missed.

Slayback was preceded in death by his wife, Germaine Slayback. He is survived by his daughters, Stacey Bonner of Davidsonville, Md., and Katie Hale of Baltimore, Md.; his sister, Joanne Muller of Pompton Plains, N.J.; and three grandsons, Benjamin, Jacob and Jonah Hale.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, June 28, 2009, at 2 p.m. at Mariner’s Bethel Church, 81 Central Ave., Ocean View, Del. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mariner’s Bethel Church.