David was born in Roseburg, Oregon to Vernon Whittenburg and Mary Alice (Wolford) Whittenburg on May 16, 1951. He attended Roseburg schools and graduated in the top 10% of his class. He entered Oregon State and was named top Sophomore Chemistry student. He transferred to Seattle Pacific University and earned a degree in Religious Studies. He then went to work for Youth for Christ.
He is survived by his mother; and four brothers, Jimmy and Jerry, of Portland , Donald , of Washington State, and Scott, of New Orleans. He is also survived by a niece, Rachel; and a nephew, Matthew, both of New Orleans.
He was preceded in death by his father, and sister, Lori Ann.
His family loved him dearly and he will be missed. Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 11 at 10 a.m. at Pearson's Funeral Home, 2305 NE Diamond Lake Blvd in Roseburg.