David James Shatkowski

David James Shatkowski of Fishers, Indiana passed away on March 5, 2023 at the age of 57 surrounded by his family.

He was born in Hammond, Ind. to Theodore and Betty Shatkowski and grew up in both Plymouth and Merrillville, Ind.

Dave obtained his BA from Indiana University in 1988 but also attend Purdue University and was a member of both the Indiana University Marching Hundred and Purdue All-American Bands along with the IU Pep Band.  He began his career as the Director of Communications for U.S. Diving, serving as a member of the 1992 and 1996 US Olympic Team Delegations.  At U.S. Diving, he managed media relations and promoted the sport of diving at domestic and international competitions including the Olympic, Pan American and Goodwill Games, and World Championships.  Following this experience, he worked 19 years as the Vice President of Communications for the Indiana CPA Society and finished as Director of Communications for the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.

An avid sports fan, he enjoyed following H.S. sports, the Colts, Pacers, White Sox, IU, Purdue, and Indy Car Racing.  May in Indy was his favorite time of year.  Dave was passionate about taking his family on road trips visiting various cities, museums and particularly ballparks.  His sons were the joy of his life and he loved cheering them on at their sporting events.  An accomplished trombonist, Dave played in the Scottish Rite Cathedral and Holy Cross Lutheran Church Orchestras.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years Laura (LaMarca) Shatkowski; sons Nathan and Benjamin Shatkowski; sister Julie Jackson (Scott); and nephew Ryan Jackson.   His parents preceded him in death.

A Memorial Gathering will be held Friday, March 24 from 4:30-5:30 PM with a Memorial Service beginning at 5:30 PM in Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 8115 Oaklandon Road, Indianapolis.

Memorial contributions in his name may be made to the 2023 Indiana University Dance Marathon at 2023 Indiana University Dance Marathon – Make a Donation or Tyler Trent Cancer Research Endowment – Purdue at Giving to PICR (purdue.edu).