David John Kirsch “Dave”, 76, of Buckley, passed away peacefully at Munson Medical Center, Sep 1, 2021. David was born Jan 26, 1945 in Traverse City, the son of Ernest “Ernie” and Irene (Henry) Kirsch.
David was very proud of serving his country in the U.S. Marine Corps. He served in the Vietnam War from 1966-1967 in the Chu-Lai as a radio telegraph operator. Once out of the Marine Corps, Dave participated in various veterans organizations.
For years he owned and operated Dave Kirsch Carpet Sales and Service in Traverse City.
After retirement he knew he couldn’t fish every day, he had to find something else to occupy his time. He decided to drive a school bus for Kingsley schools. For 11 years he enjoyed meeting all the children and driving to school field trips. Driving the special needs bus he met a special young man named Nick. They became best buds, teaching each other patience, kindness, compassion, and trust.
After retiring a 2nd time, he enjoyed creating beautiful stained glass art for many, fishing with his buddies, telling tall fishing tales while having coffee every morning at his two favorite restaurants in Buckley. His most favorite thing to do was spend time with his 3 grandsons. He loved attending their sports events and teaching them how to fish and about life lessons. He also enjoyed spending winters in Port Charlotte, FL and Trail riding his ORV. He was a true sportsman, loving the outdoors.
He is survived by his fiancé, Nancy Youngs; mother of his children, Connie (Snyder) Kirsch; son, Michael Kirsch; daughter, Susan Kirsch; fo Whitehall, MI; sister, Marianne (Ron) Bruce of Dexter, MI, and the light of his eye, his 3 grandsons, Cayden, Cole, and Cooper; who he loved immensely.
He was proceeded in death by his parents, Ernest and Irene Kirsch; brother, Kenneth Kirsch; sisters, Diane Garmhausen and Beverly Schneider.
A Celebration of Life will be held 1 pm to 4 pm, Sunday, October 24, 2021 at the Cherryland VFW Post #2780. A brief military service will be held at 2 pm.
Memorial contributions may be made in Dave’s honor to the Grand Traverse Veterans Coalition, designate, Disabled American Veterans, PO Box 5315, Traverse City, MI 49696; Cherryland Humane Society, 1750 Ahlberg, Rd Traverse City, Mi 49696 or Michigan Medicine, Brain Tumor Support Fund, 777 E. Eisenhower Parkway, Ann Arbor, MI 48109.
The family chose Life Story Funeral Home.