David “Dave” Alan Foraker of Rock Hill, South Carolina and formerly Alton, Illinois passed away January 22, 2024, in South Carolina. He was born October 27, 1949, in Alton, Illinois to the late Orville and Imo (née Harley) Foraker. He was also preceded in death by his stepfather Don Graner and parents-in-law, Harley and Donna Auton. He is survived by his children: Heather Foraker and Brian (Linda) Graves, his sister Susan (Terry) Koehne, his nephew Christopher (Rochelle) Koehne, two beloved grandchildren: Tesia Satterfield and Brendan Graves and his great-niece, Emery Rose Koehne. He also leaves behind his former wives, but still good friends, Mary Kay Moser and Cathy Foraker, a large extended family, and many friends.

Dave was born and raised in Alton, Illinois. His music education began before he could walk. His great-grandfather “Pop” Thomas started his love for the violin. Dave always carried a picture of Pop Thomas playing the violin. Music was his first love. He spent his life as a musician and was a member of several successful groups throughout his time such as Fat Fury in his early years and Dave Foraker and True Blue in the later years. He also released several solo albums. His “funky white fiddle” was with him wherever he went and most knew who you were talking about if you said anything about the Blues Fiddler. He was also talented on the piano and could play anything after hearing it just once. Dave was an amazing storyteller. His stories would make the audience laugh and cry as he told them. He would reach the end of a story and the room would go quiet, the anticipation of another song palpable in the air, and he would finally begin to sing. His music came from his soul; his raspy voice reminiscent of the old blues legends. And it did not matter who you were, you listened because his music was true.

In his later years, Dave spent most of his time going to different senior centers, adult enrichment centers and nursing homes. He brought his ministry to the residents through his music and entertained them with songs from his life and the past. It became his calling to bring music to those who needed it, and it always brought him joy when a resident who had not smiled or spoken in a while would sing along with him to an old tune. He brought life and joy back to those who had lost it through time.

Dave was a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, uncle and friend. He knew somebody everywhere he went. Most who knew him, have a story to tell about their adventures together. He had a musician’s need for attention, which took him anywhere there was a stage. And though it sometimes caused hardship, he always answered when the music called. He had a gentle soul, with a tiny bit of rebellion thrown in.

Dave’s sudden passing has broken many hearts. But he would want everyone to keep “Cruisin’ for a Bluesin’” and keep a song in their hearts. He would not want a lot of tears, but a sharing of stories and music. So, in his honor, raise a glass, tell your favorite “Dave Story”, and sing a song to keep his memory safe in you.

A Celebration of Life is being planned for a later date in the Charlotte area. It was Dave’s wish that his ashes be spread in his beloved Mighty Mississippi River. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a music ministry of your choice or a non-profit organization that supports up and coming musical artists.

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