David Denyes

David James Denyes (affectionately known as ‘Big D’) came into this world, presumptively without a peep, on June 4th, 1942, and left us to navigate the endless Pine River in the sky, on November 13th, 2024. He lived – no, he flourished – on this earth for 82 years. What this man created and crafted during his lifetime are tangible and monumental testaments of his passion and skill as a handyman and builder of houses. More importantly, the home he provided and nurtured for his family was consistent and everlasting, despite the physical number of structures we lived in while growing up. We were surrounded by stability, comfort, and belonging.

After spending 4 years in the United States Marine Corps, Dave met Susan Smithgall (lovingly known as ‘Susie Q’), and they quickly fell head-over-heels for each other. This past June, they celebrated 59 years together, although technically they shared their lives for six decades! Their courtship was quick, as they were eager to embark on life’s journey together and start a family. After a heartbreaking miscarriage early on, their love and perseverance prevailed when Jenny was born in 1968, followed by Joel in 1970, and Jason in 1971. They also opened their hearts and home to four beautiful foster children over the years: Shelly, Tina, Betty, and Lori. And if that wasn’t enough, Dave and Sue became surrogate parents and role models to endless cousins, nieces, nephews, friends of their children - anyone who simply needed a warm meal, a place to stay, or a shoulder to lean on.

Dave’s sense of family was his driving force, but his sense of community was also strong, especially as he aged. He was a proud Marine, through and through, albeit a grumpy old one by his own admission! He was an active member of his church and was known to share his stories with a twinkle in his eye and a smile on his face. At Christmastime, he brought much joy and awe to the children when he and Sue played Santa and Mrs. Claus. He was a doting grandpa, a role he was honored to have and took quite seriously. The guidance, acceptance, and pure, unadulterated love he poured into those five grandchildren have helped them become the amazing adults they are today. Nick, Alexander, Morgan, Gavin, and Skylar held the most special of places in his heart.

Did we mention that Dave’s passion was building? He would build anything for anyone, and we do mean anything! We can’t begin to tally the number of porches, decks, patios, and fences he has fashioned and forged over the years. We have lost count of the cottages, cabins, renovation and rehab projects he successfully completed. We are certain however that if you stacked up all the 2 x 4’s he handled in his lifetime, they would surely reach the stars.

Dave, by nature, was a stubborn, quiet, kind, and honest man. He was funny, raunchy, and surprisingly silly. His sense of humor put people at ease and is one of his most memorable qualities. He was THE HARDEST WORKER WE HAVE EVER KNOWN. His love language was making and creating things with his own two hands; it was in DOING things for others that he excelled. His actions spoke louder than his words, though each one of us knew exactly how he felt. He never failed to convey his pride. His unwavering support guided us through our most difficult times, his encouragement motivated our biggest successes. We have learned strength and resilience from him, so we honor him by carrying on – and caring for one another.

In looking back, we can clearly see what a tremendous impact he had on more people than we ever could have imagined. His generosity and giving spirit have been received in-kind by countless people throughout the duration of his life. As his children, we have come to realize that wasn’t just our father - he was a father figure to EVERYONE. What an incredible gift he has given to so many.

David James Denyes, age 82, of Grand Rapids, Michigan passed away surrounded by his family on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. He was born in Flint, Michigan in the summer of 1942 to the late James and Tillie [Kloostra] Denyes.

Along with his parents, David is preceded in death by his brother Paul Denyes and his brother-in-law Phil Pryor.

David is survived by his wife of 59 years, Susan [Smithgall] and their children Jennifer (Brian) Gillum, Joel (Beth) Denyes and Jason (Tanya) Denyes, their grandchildren Nick, Alexander, Morgan, Gavin, Skylar and their bonus granddaughter MacKenzie, great-grandchild Adrian, and his sister Beverly Goodwin.

A Celebration of Life, for all of those touched by Dave (“Big D”) will take place at Faith Lutheran Church, (2740 Fuller Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505) on November 30th, from 1:00 – 4:00 PM with a Military Honor Guard presentation at 2:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Dave’s memory to Crash’s Landing, (3433 River Hill Dr, Grand Rapids, MI 49534), (www.crashslanding.org)

To read more about Dave, to share a memory or photo, or to sign his guestbook, visit www.heritagelifestory.com