David Michael Hughes

David Michael Hughes, affectionately known as “Dave O” to those who either dared to get close enough or simply admired his legendary knack for being a lovable pain in the butt, passed away on March 22, 2026, at the Valley Hospice Care Center North after a long battle with cancer. Born on February 16, 1970, in Canton, OH, Dave lived a life that was as full of quirks as it was full of heart—and yes, he really did have a huge heart.

Dave gave thirty years of his life to plumbing at Rooter-Rooter, where he was presumably the guy who fixed everyone’s pipes—and probably caused a few floods just to keep things interesting. Known for his fondness for hats, knives, bowling, camping, church, Myrtle Beach (because who doesn’t love sand and sunscreen?), and, above all else, food, Dave never met a challenge he couldn’t flush away or a meal he couldn’t devour with gusto.

Attended Fairless High School in Navarre, OH, David found his spiritual calling during his twenties and gave his heart to the Lord, undoubtedly becoming the most entertaining congregation member one could hope for. Mostly, though, Dave wanted to be around family—whether they wanted him there or not—which is a testament to his kind and loyal nature that made everyone adore him.

If you ever wondered what made Dave special, it was his unique ability to be both delightfully difficult and deeply caring. In the grand tradition of plumbers everywhere, he got his hands dirty but always made sure your soul was clean.

Dave leaves behind a wonderfully supportive circle of loved ones who tolerated, adored, and occasionally rolled their eyes at him. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Heather Michele (Burchfield) Hughes, and his three children: Breanna (Blake) Buckner of Georgia, Dustin Trumbull of Steubenville, and Sage Trumbull of Steubenville—who are likely forever grateful for having inherited at least some measure of his resilience if not his stubborn streak. His siblings Stephanie Kennedy of Massillon, OH, Paula (Jeff) Haas of New Philly, John (Peggy) Hughes of Dundee, OH, Lisa (Dan) Kennedy of Beach City,OH, Lisa Cresence of Massillon, OH, and Norma Winkart (Geoff Alcorn) of Massillon round out a crowd that surely had their hands full keeping up with Dave’s spirited antics. Also surviving are brother and sister-in-law Todd Burchfield of Steubenville and Heidi Moore of Toronto, along with a host of nieces, nephews, friends, family, and the loyal crew at Roto-Rooter who undoubtedly still reminisce about all those “special” plumbing jobs.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents John Hughes and Cecelia Rae (Hattery) Clemens, the father that raised him Tom Clemens, siblings Thomas Michael Clemens and Brian Clemens, as well as two nephews, Jason and Zachary, who no doubt now have the best excuse to escape Dave’s legendary teasing from beyond.

His proudest accomplishments were not the countless clogged drains he conquered, but his children, his pets, his mother, and his mother-in-law—because, really, anyone who could survive being cherished by a Hughes in-law family deserves a medal.

Visitation will be held at Schuetz Funeral Home, located at 235 Clifton Ave., Mingo Junction, OH 43938, on April 10, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, culminating in a memorial service at 6:00 PM  with Pastor Cody Gaston and Musical Guest Mark Carpino, for those who want to pay their respects and perhaps share some epic David tales.

So here’s to Dave O—a man who plunged boldly into life’s messes, patched up the leaks, and left every room a little warmer (and maybe a little wetter) than he found it. Rest easy, Dave, knowing that you were, as ever, deeply loved, thoroughly missed, and forever remembered as the one-of-a-kind plumber, family man, and hat enthusiast that you were. 

To leave a condolence visit www.schuetzfuneralhome.com