A recent past dean of our Peoria Chapter of the American Guild of Organists, David Byrkit, died on April 27, 2024 at the age of 80. His family has set up a scholarship fund for future organists – click here to learn more and contribute to the fund.

Here’s his obituary:

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We are heartbroken to share the news that David C. Byrkit, husband of Sharon, and father of Heather, Hilary and Charles, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at the age of 80.

Born on February 29, 1944, in a leap year, David was a joyful, loving soul, who uplifted the spirits of all those around him. A passionate musician and a trailblazer in technology, he was a larger-than-life force, who was deeply committed to his family and community, and dearly loved by his family and friends.

From his journey as a Juilliard-trained professional musician and an organist/choir director to his pioneering work in computer engineering and technology, David was a true renaissance man.

The eldest of three sons, David was born and raised in Peoria, Illinois, along with his two brothers, Gary and Mark. His mother, Marie, a Peoria public school teacher and his father, Grover “Jack,” a manager at Sturm Freightways, instilled in their sons the values of education, integrity and compassion for others. They were active members of First Christian Church, where David was president of the high school youth group and later held positions on the church board. First Christian shaped his lifelong passion for music and the artistry of the pipe organ. He was passionate about the pipe organ, not only in performing and leading worship, but the mechanics and beauty of the organ. He joined the American Guild of Organists in high school and, in later years, held the position of Dean of the Peoria Chapter.

As a young man, David attended Bradley University, receiving a degree in math and physics and a minor in organ studies. In 1971, David met the love of his life, Sharon, beginning a lifelong adventure of love and partnership. The couple shared a love for music and community, which would shape their journey together. After marrying in 1973 in Peoria, they moved to Fort Worth, Texas, where David studied organ with Emmet Smith at Texas Christian University and served as choir director at Northway Christian Church.

In 1975, they packed up their Ford Mustang and moved to New York City, when David was offered a computer engineering job at BBDO advertising and Sharon took a job with Polydor Records. They fully embraced the city’s vibrant culture and the beautiful cathedrals, including Riverside Church, where David sang in the choir, and was further inspired by the renowned organist Frederick Swann. David continued to follow his passion and attended Juilliard, sharpening his skills as an organist and choir director.

In 1977, David and Sharon moved to Park Slope, Brooklyn, where David took on the role of organist and choir director at Old First Reformed Church. His leadership and passion transformed the church’s choir into a vibrant and close-knit community, drawing highly talented singers and producing beautiful, classical performances. He not only played the organ and led the choir, but also delivered a memorable sermon on the importance of sharing one’s gifts with the world and to “not hide your light under a bushel.”

During their time in Brooklyn, David and Sharon raised three children, and restored an old, historic Brownstone, creating a beautiful home for their family. Sharon taught at Berkeley Carroll School while studying art history at Hunter College. Alongside his music profession, David also continued his computer engineering work, involved in the early generations of computers, and the pioneering field of networks, PCs and the internet. He spent a large part of his career engineering internet systems for a large defense company, ITT, during the earliest days and years of this breakthrough technology. He was the master of solving complex problems and was considered an expert in the field, quoted in numerous technical publications and computer magazines.

David’s family was the center of his world. His devotion and love for his family was transparent. His home was always filled with the playful energy of dogs and cats. Known for his warmth, humor and honesty, David had a way of making friends wherever he went. He was a passionate supporter of civil rights and women’s rights, and his politics were grounded in compassion and a genuine belief in equality for all.

After 25 years in New York City, David and Sharon returned to Peoria, where they lived out their golden years together. They once again took on the task of restoring a historic property in the beautiful Moss Bradley district. David was a champion for Peoria, and if you wanted to know anything about his beloved hometown or Bradley University basketball, he was the one to ask.

During this time in Peoria, David continued doing the things he loved: playing the organ, spending time with his beloved wife and family and supporting local cultural venues and artists. He was an organist and guest organist at a number of churches in Peoria, including Westminster Presbyterian, Saint Paul’s Episcopal, First Christian, Lutheran Hillside and First Federated, where he also held the position of church elder. His life was further enriched by his beautiful grandchildren, whom he adored, and they adored him back.

David’s legacy will continue to resonate in the hearts and souls of all who knew him. He leaves behind many heartbroken friends and family, and a world enriched by his music, his humor, his love and his enthusiasm for life. As we celebrate his life, let us remember his advice: share your gift, don’t hide it under a bushel.

A celebration of David’s life will be held on June 29 at East Congregational Church, 610 Adams Street, Milton, MA.