David Outman, 66

David Arden Outman, age 66, of Constantine, died Sunday, April 29, at his home after a 14 month battle with cancer. David was known as both a gentleman and as a gentle man but with a clever sense of humor. He was born July 17, 1945 to Harold and Winona (Moord) Outman and was a life-long resident of the Constantine area. He was a 1963 graduate of Constantine High School where he lettered in football, basketball and track. David served in the U.S.Navy Reserves. On June 29, 1968 he married Susan Jane Alexander. After receiving an Associate’s degree from Ferris State College, he worked at White Pigeon Implement until it closed. David retired from Finnerman’s Farm &  Garden in 2003 after 25 years, first as a mechanic and later in sales of John Deere Equipment and Valley Irrigation Systems. He enjoyed working with local farmers. After retirement, he continued his love of farming by working with Dale Stuby Farms. Dave’s hobbies were gardening, chain saw carving, working with stained glass, woodworking and repairing small engines. Dave served two terms on the Constantine School Board and briefly on the Constantine Township Planning Board. He was a member of Messiah Lutheran Church where he served on several committees and was an all-around handy man. Dave volunteered at the Constantine Community Soup Kitchen and the Constantine Food Bank.
He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers Malcolm, Marlin and Richard “Rick” Outman. He is survived by his wife, Susan, of nearly 44 years; two sons Scott (Stephanie) Outman of Constantine and Ryan (Elizabeth) Outman of Bessemer, Alabama; two granddaughters he adored, Olivia and Sophia Outman of Bessemer, AL, brother Edward (Theo) Outman of Vistula, Indiana, sister Cheryl Hart, Middlebury, Indiana, great grandson, Greysin Hopp; several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews and his church family.
Relatives and friends will be received Wednesday from 2-4 and 6-8 pm  at the Eley Funeral Home in Constantine. Religous services will be held 11 am Thursday at the Messiah Lutheran Church with Pastor Dennis Smith officiating. Cremation will follow services. In Lieu of flowers, Memorials may be directed to Messiah Lutheran Church or Hospice of Three Rivers. On line messages may be left for the family at www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.