David Letterman Parents: Meet Dorothy Mengering & Harry Joe Letterman

Born in 1947 in Indianapolis, Letterman grew up in the Broad Ripple area, about 12 miles from the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway. He was the middle child, with one older and one younger sister, creating a dynamic that surely contributed to the development of his quick humor and witty comebacks.

Harry Joseph Letterman, David’s father, played a crucial role in shaping his early life. Born on April 15, 1915, Harry was not just a father but a florist by trade. His dedication to his craft likely left a lasting impression on young David, who, in later years, would find humor even in the art of arranging flowers.

Dorothy Marie Letterman Mengering, David’s mother, was born Dorothy Marie Hofert on July 18, 1921. She served as a church secretary for the Second Presbyterian Church of Indianapolis. While not a regular fixture on her son’s show, Dorothy made occasional appearances, often during holidays and birthdays, adding a touch of familial warmth to the late-night setting.

Tragically, David Letterman lost his father at a young age. Harry Joseph Letterman passed away on February 13, 1973. Despite the loss, his memory lived on in the heart and humor of his son, who would later name his own son Harry Joseph Letterman, ensuring that the family legacy continued.

The matriarch of the Letterman family, Dorothy Marie, continued to be a source of inspiration and occasional comedy on her son’s show until her passing on April 11, 2017.