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David Allan Sziede of Marcellus, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and community member, passed away on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at the age of 72. Born on November 19, 1951 in Three Rivers, David was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Patricia Thompson, with whom he shared 40 joyous years of marriage. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Allan Sziede and May (Owen) Sziede, his parents-in-law, Ralph and Iva Rhodes, his son, David Thompson. He is survived by his loving family, including his siblings, Nancy (Phil) Smoker, Alison (Larry) Smeltzer, Brian (Natalie) Sziede, and Leah (Larry) Mason. He is also survived by his daughters, Deb Warner (Darryl Warner), Becky (Todd) Borger, and Halee (Jeff) Surach; daughter-in-law, Deitra Thompson; sons, Randy (Kim) Thompson and Richard (Teresa) Thompson; as well as 22 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, 7 great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was a hard worker who spent his adult life, before retiring, working at Weyerhaeuser. Dave was a man of deep patriotism who loved his country and dedicated much of his time to the local VFW. He was a familiar face at VFW events, often seen playing music, cooking at fish fries, and volunteering whenever needed. His love for music was infectious, and he was always ready for a jam session, instilling this passion in many of his grandchildren.
Dave and Pat enjoyed countless adventures camping in their motorhome, often taking their grandchildren along for the ride. Winters were spent at Windward Isle in Sarasota, Florida, where Dave quickly became the heartbeat of the park. He loved organizing cornhole tournaments and making popcorn on Monday nights, and the community there became a second family to him. He would often play music and enjoyed the numerous friends he made there.
A man of many hobbies, Dave enjoyed woodworking in his shop, building cornhole boards, deer hunting, and attending his grandchildren’s sporting and band events. He was known for his craftiness, often creating games and gadgets, and took great pride in maintaining a tidy garage, lawn, and home, and was proud of their six-foot-tall stargazer lilies.
Every August, Dave eagerly anticipated hosting the family reunion, where he would organize games, piñatas and tournaments and serve his famous sweetcorn. Years ago, he loved to see the grandkids sledding at his house and tried to make a bigger, better hill each year. He was a lifelong learner, and he had an entrepreneurial spirit, constantly crafting new handy gadgets to make life easier for others. Notably, he was the first Mr. Basketball at Marcellus High School and maintained close ties with his classmates, sharing laughter and his quick wit. If you knew Dave, you knew someone with a big sense of humor and a heart of gold. He always had a story to tell and if you were having a bad day, he’d offer a hug and a “doggone it.”
Following his wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Marcellus VFW on July 12 at 11 am, with a luncheon provided by the VFW Auxiliary immediately following. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the Marcellus High School Music Department, PO Box 48, Marcellus, MI 49067, or the Windward Isle Association, #1 Catamarine Dr, Sarasota, FL 34233. David Allan Sziede will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and community spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
While visiting Dave’s webpage at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory with the family.
The family is being assisted by the Avink Funeral Home & Cremation Society, 129 S. Grand St. in Schoolcraft. 269 679-5622
