David Paul Stapert passed away on October 5, 2023. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Dianne; and his daughter, Cathy (Jim) Holbrook. Dave was born in Plainwell, Michigan and went to high school at Plainwell and Central High School. He attended Western Michigan University where he met his wife, Dianne. He was a talented and active athlete, playing on the basketball and football teams in both high school and college. An avid outdoorsman Dave loved to fish and hunt, spending as much time as possible at the family “cabin” in Irons, MI on Cool Lake. Hours of fishing on the Little Manistee River with friends gave him pleasure. During the winter months his family spent weekends at the cabin ice fishing and snowmobiling, making lasting memories. Later in life Dave took to fishing on the big lake in his prized Boston Whaler. Dave spent his career as a salesman – predominantly in computer sales back in the day when computers took up full rooms for businesses. He had a successful multi-year career with Burroughs (now Unisys). During that time, he made great friends and was an enthusiastic golfer. Dave loved a good medium-rare steak and baked potato, big fireplaces, fishing, boating, dogs, watching sports, and, most of all, his wife Dianne. The family will not be holding a service. Donations may be made to St. Cecilia Music Center in Dave’s memory to support SCMC’s School of Music in honor of Dianne’s long-time piano teaching career. www.scmcgr.org
4 Responses
We had so many great times fishing together during retirement. Our friendship goes back to our college days at WMU. Sure will miss the boy. Our thoughts and prayers are with Diane, Cathy and the family. Larry and Connie
I’ve know Dave since I was 14. Our families were close. Dave was always larger than life and it’s hard to realize his time on Earth is complete. I still remember the day he told me I didn’t have to call him Mr Stapert anymore. It took me a few times before it felt right calling him by his first name! Sending so much love to Cathy & Dianne.
My condolences to Dianne and Cathy. He was such a lot of fun each time I saw him, biggest smile ever. Sending love and strength to you. ♥
Cathy so sorry to hear this about your dad. I remember him to be a pleasant man and always smiling.