David Lewis "DL" Nowlin was born on August 20, 1941, in Walls, Oklahoma, to Hansford Nowlin and Ellie Cagle Nowlin. He was the youngest of four children. David graduated from Panama High School in 1959. Growing up, he worked as a farrier and broke horses, developing a strong work ethic and a lifelong love of the outdoors.

He went on to work as a warehouse supervisor for Affiliated Foods. After its closing, he continued his career with Bartlett Collins, where he worked until his retirement. Never one to slow down, David later built custom homes and was even featured in Tulsa Homes magazine.

David met the love of his life, Phyllys, and they were married in 1965. Their union was blessed with two daughters.

David had a deep passion for classic cars and owned many throughout his life. He was an avid outdoorsman and cherished time spent outside. During his daughters' childhood, he was a dedicated father who coached their softball teams, creating lasting memories along the way.

He is survived by his daughters, Joi Hartnauer and her husband, John, and Jill Brewer and her husband, Stephen; his sister, Virginia Atkins; his grandchildren, Whitney Heideman, Erich Hartnauer, Kendall Hartnauer, Holly Brewer, Abigail Brewer, and Carlee Brewer; as well as ten great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Wilma Mize; his brother, Alton Nowlin; and his beloved wife of 58 years, Phyllys.