Obituaries

David George “Dave” Etcher, known to so many simply as “Pops”, passed away on May 7, 2026, at the age of 71. Born on January 11, 1955, in Gaylord, Michigan, to Joseph Albert and Betty A. (Ouland) Etcher, Dave lived a life centered around family, laughter, friendship, and love. The kind of love that made people feel safe, welcomed, and important just by being around him.

Dave was funny, outgoing, and had a heart bigger than most people could ever imagine. He loved deeply and wholeheartedly, and if you were lucky enough to know him, you were lucky enough to be loved by him. He had a contagious, one-of-a-kind laugh that could fill a room and pull laughter out of everyone around him. He was the person people gravitated toward, the one telling stories, cracking jokes, singing along to oldies, and making memories that would last forever.

He was a proud father to Brian (Jenny) Thompson, Ronald (Shaylee) Etcher, Donald Etcher, Joseph (Samantha) Etcher, and Carrie (Steffes) Etcher. He also shared his life with his companion, Tina Bridegam.

Being “Pops” was one of Dave’s greatest accomplishments and biggest joys in life. Together, Dave and Mary Ann Etcher raised and loved twenty-two grandchildren, pouring endless love, guidance, humor, and support into each one of them. His family was everything to him, and there was nothing he wouldn’t do for the people he loved.

One of the most special relationships in Dave’s life was the bond he shared with his brother, Barney (Janelle) Etcher. Their love as brothers was truly something rare, the kind of bond people hope to find once in a lifetime. They were best friends built on loyalty, laughter, and unconditional love. Through every season of life, they stood side by side, sharing countless memories, stories, hardships, and good times. Their connection was unbreakable, and anyone who saw them together knew just how much they meant to one another.

Dave was also incredibly close to Tony Rankin and Chris Brady, whom he loved like sons. Some of his happiest moments were spent out on the water fishing, riding on the boat, laughing, and simply enjoying life together. Those moments meant everything to him.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Betty, and his sister, Donna L. Liskie.

The world feels a little quieter without Dave in it, but the love, laughter, and memories he gave so freely will continue to live on through everyone who knew him. He left fingerprints on countless hearts and an imprint that time could never erase.

Visitation will be held on May 14, 2026, from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM at Family Life Funeral Homes, 24549 S. M-129, Pickford, MI 49774. The funeral service will follow beginning at 3:00 PM.

And if Dave could leave everyone with one final message, it would probably be something like, “Don’t cry too much for me… have a beer, tell some stories, play some CCR, and make sure the fish are biting.”

He was deeply loved, and he will be deeply missed forever.

Family Life Funeral Homes – Pickford assisted with the arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.