David L. Miklic of Homosassa, Fla., formerly of Washington, died peacefully Wednesday, November 15, 2017, in his home, with his wife, Rita, and daughter-in-law, Tara, by his side, following a long battle with cancer. He was under the loving care of Hospice of Citrus and the Nature Coast.

He was born June 4, 1952, in Washington, a son of the late Dorothy Taylor Miklic and Ralph L. Miklic.

Mr. Miklic was a graduate of Trinity High School, where he was vice president of his junior class. He was also a proud member of the band, Elements of Sound, which won first place in Battle of the Bands in 1969.

In high school, he began working at George Stewart Motor Co. and continued after graduation, attaining the position of supervisor of the auto detail department. He later worked for Pennsylvania American Water for 30 years, before retiring in 2013 and moving to Homosassa.

In retirement, Mr. Miklic used his God-given talents by pursuing his love and passion for woodworking. His projects covered a diversity of subjects. His skill and workmanship was shared by others at numerous craft shows throughout Florida.

He was a member of Citrus County Craft Council and West Citrus Elk's Club.

In 2011, he married Rita J. Clements. They lived in Sugarmill Woods in Homosassa, where they made many wonderful friends and neighbors who were a constant support for them during his long illness with cancer.

Mr. Miklic was a member of Crystal River Baptist Church, where he was baptized in 2016.

Deceased are his first wife, Susan Miller Miklic; his mother, Dorothy Taylor Miklic; his father, Ralph L. Miklic; and his stepfather, Chalmer Cowen.

Surviving, in addition to his wife, Rita J. Clements, are two sons, David L. Miklic II (Susan) and Matthew Miklic (Jamie); a daughter, Jennifer Smalley (Christopher); two stepsons, James Clements (Erin) and Christopher Clements (Tara); a sister, Kathie Bock (James); and a brother, Ralph "Ricky" Miklic.

Mr. Miklic was the proud grandfather of five grandchildren and five stepgrandchildren. Other survivors include aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins in Washington, as well as many lifelong friends.

If ever in need, friends and family knew they could always call on him and Rita. Mr. Miklic will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

There will be a memorial service at 2 p.m. Saturday, December 9, in Nichol Funeral Home, 1873 East Maiden Street, Washington. A reception will follow. Interment will be held privately in Washington Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to Hospice of Citrus and the Nature Coast, Citrus LTC Team, 3280 West Audubon Park Path, Lecanto, FL 34461.