LEWISTON — David Derwood Tapley, 86, World War II veteran, of Lewiston, died Monday, May 2, at Marshwood Center.

He was born in Litchfield, Conn., June 12, 1924, the son of the late Allen Tapley and Grace Doucette Tapley.

David enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on Dec. 30, 1941, serving his country proudly in the capture and defense of Guadalcanal, Rendova and Munda Islands with the USMC 9th Defense Battalion. He was a lifetime member of VFW Post 9150 in Lewiston and American Legion Post 135 of Sabattus.

After the war, he was employed by Whiteholm Dairy, Specialty Paper Co., State Paper Co., St. Mary’s Hospital and Central Maine Medical Center.

David married Clarice Casson on Sept. 3, 1951, having 59 years and 8 months together. He was a devoted, loving husband, father and grandfather.

He is survived by his wife; two sons, Ronald Tapley and wife, Linda, and Alan Tapley and wife, Sarah; one daughter, Barbara Kennedy, and husband, Scott; five grandchildren, Justin, Quintin and Veronica Pringle and Cole and Chase Tapley; and four sisters, Ione, Shirley, Merline and Bonnie.

He was predeceased by a brother; Norman; and two sisters, Daisy and Arlene.

David’s family extends a special thank-you to Androscoggin Hospice Care for his comforting, loving care, especially to Kate, Guy, Beth and Barbara; also to the staff from the Gilbert Wing at Marshwood Center and a big thank-you to the Veterans Administration.

You are invited to share your condolences and fond memories with the Tapley family by visiting their guest book at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.