David Baker Junkin “Dave”, age 40, passed away on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. He was born on May 17, 1986, in Timonium, Maryland, to Dave and Cathy Junkin.

From an early age, David was curious about the world around him. As a young boy, he loved cars, Disney, and enjoyed playing businessman, showing an early interest in the things that would continue to capture his attention throughout his life. He swam on Dulaney Swim Club’s swim team from the time he was 9 until he went to college. During his teenage years, he played in the marching band at Dulaney High School, where he developed friendships and experiences that became part of his formative years.

After graduating from Dulaney in 2004, David continued his education at the University of Delaware, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Technology as a member of the Class of 2009. He was a proud second generation Blue Hen and greatly valued his college experience and the friendships he made along the way. He later continued his education at Florida Institute of Technology, earning his Master’s degree in Systems Management.

David spent the early years of his professional career in Baltimore working for AMSAA. He eventually took a position with the Department of Homeland Security where he made Washington, D.C. his home for the next 11 years. He embraced city life and loved his daily walks to work and the energy and experiences that came with living in the nation’s capital. David loved his country and took great pride in his career in government service. He genuinely loved his work and the people he worked alongside, developing friendships with many of his colleagues who became an important part of his life. He was a natural leader who supported and cared for his employees.

David loved to travel and enjoyed experiencing new places and discovering what the world had to offer. The South of France, Paris,Italy, Japan, Hawaii, Thailand were some of his favorites among many other places. He especially loved Ocean City and the beach, where he could enjoy extended trips to “J-Birds” and bike rides exploring town. David had an appreciation for the finer things in life and loved staying in hotels including “robe time”. He also had exceptional taste, including choice of snacks, restaurants, and music.

David had a wonderful sense of humor and a playful side that those closest to him knew well. He enjoyed making people laugh and had an appreciation for comedy and television. He introduced family and friends to some of his favorite shows, and was an early adopter back when Netflix still delivered DVDs by mail. He had a song in his heart, a curious mind, and an independent spirit. He was smart, fun, funny, silly, and always interested in learning something new or sharing something he had discovered.

Above all, David will be remembered for his generosity, sensitivity, and the genuine care he showed to others. He was thoughtful and considerate, often putting the needs of the people he loved ahead of his own. He noticed the little things, remembered details that others might overlook, and had a remarkable ability to make people feel special. He was a wonderful listener and an especially generous gift giver, always finding just the right way to show someone how much they meant to him. David had a natural ability to connect with people and made friends wherever life took him. Even during his time in the hospital, he made a point of learning the names of all the nurses caring for him, including the cleaning crew. He was interested in people, appreciated their kindness, and never missed an opportunity to make a connection.

David appreciated the bigger ideas in life, especially the kindness, belonging, and humanity embodied by Mr. Rogers. These were fitting reflections of someone who understood the importance of perspective, compassion, and the people we encounter along the way.

David was a loving son and brother, a loyal friend, and someone who touched countless lives. He was loved by so many, and he loved them just as deeply. His humor, generosity, thoughtfulness, and ability to make people feel valued will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed and remembered every day.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents Edward and Pearl Strobel and William and Anna Junkin, and his uncle Alan Strobel. He is survived by his mother and father David and Catherine Junkin, his younger siblings Ann Moore(Matt), Michael Junkin(Jackie), and Paul Junkin(Lauren). As well as niece and nephews Luke Moore, Grace Moore, William Moore and George Junkin.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026 at 11:00 , at Hunts Memorial Methodist Church. Additional service details will be provided as they become available.

A collection of family and friend photographs and life milestones can be viewed at https://photos.app.goo.gl/1ug7QUTDWg9mVnkT9