Dave M. Wawee

All who knew Dave Wawee will certainly agree that he truly lived each and every day to the very fullest, never taking a single moment for granted. He was a shining example of compassion and humility, and he made every room a little brighter. There was nothing that brought Dave greater joy than spending time with his friends and family. His insatiable zest for life could be felt by all who were near, and his love for the people around him was limitless. Already so dearly missed, Dave leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that his loved ones will forever hold close to their hearts.

Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, on August 29 of 1976, Dave joined his brother, Michael, and soon became an older brother himself as his family grew to include three younger siblings, Sarah, Levi, and Ariane.

Throughout his childhood, Dave was a typical boy of his generation in many ways. In the 4th grade, he moved with his mother, Karen Norton, to Grand Rapids, Michigan, and was raised in the West side of the city. Dave was an extremely active kid and loved riding his bike, fishing, spending time outdoors, and playing all kinds of sports. He attended local schools, including Stocking Elementary School and Westwood Middle School. In his elementary years, he met Aaron “Bear” Reichert. The two quickly grew to be the best of friends and as close as brothers, and their friendship would last for many years to come.

Dave graduated from Union High School in 1996. He spent a few years working in tool and die, but when those shops closed down, he made the decision to pursue a career in masonry with his best friend, Bear. Dave would go on to work with Bear at Kortman Mason for 27 years. The two were roommates, coworkers, and true brothers in all the ways that counted. Dave’s solid work ethic shone in his career, and he was able to provide for himself and those who came to depend on him over the years.

When Dave was about 18 years old, his path crossed with a young woman named Lisa Marie Seymour. He ran into her one day while walking into a local store. Dave asked Lisa for her name, and the rest was history. Together in 1998, Dave and Lisa welcomed their son, Jonathan, into their lives. Though not fit for each other, Dave and Lisa did their best to provide Jonathan with the opportunities in life that they both never had. Dave ensured to instill Jonathan with a deep sense of kindness, and Dave did his very best to love Jonathan unconditionally. Dave showed his son how to enjoy life’s most precious moments by taking him tubing, and by spending time at lots of softball fields.

Later in life, Dave was fortunate to develop a close bond with Theresa Zander. The two began dating in January of 2025, beginning with a first date to Trini’s in Sparta. Theresa was drawn to Dave’s genuine and loyal heart. Spending time taking trips to Florida, walking beaches and searching for sand dollars. They enjoyed camping together with family and playing corn hole with friends. Dave cherished his friendships, many of which he had fostered throughout his entire life. He chose his family and cared for others so well. There was nothing Dave wouldn’t do for those he loved.

Never one to sit still for long, Dave had many hobbies to keep him busy in his free time. Many of his favorite memories were of camping and riding quads in Stanwood, Michigan. A lifelong athlete, Dave loved bowling, disc golf, and playing corn hole with friends. He also excelled in slow-pitch softball for years, even becoming a World Series Champion with Bear in 2021. Dave was known for his sweet tooth, as well as his love for potato chips, grilling steaks, and Bud Light in a bottle or can. He enjoyed authentic Mexican food and could often be found at El Sombrero, his favorite local spot. Dave liked listening to classic rock and country music, he was especially fond of watching Duck Dynasty.

When reflecting on the life of Dave Wawee, it is easy to see both his unwavering determination and his boundless love for his friends and family. He was always willing to go above and beyond to serve others. Dave treasured his relationships, and he was fierce, protective, and loyal. His fun-loving spirit and vivacious personality brought so much joy to those around him. Although life will not be the same without Dave Wawee here, the impact he left will never be forgotten, and his priceless legacy lives on.

WAWEE, Mr. David Mark Wawee age 49, of Grand Rapids, passed away unexpectedly on Jan 28, 2026. He was preceded in death by his mother, Karen Wawee; “Mom” Nancy Mead; aunt, Wanda Westbrook; niece, Anastasia Boon; and cousin, Perry Westbrook. Dave is survived by his son, Jonathan Seymour; the love he finally found, Theresa Zander; siblings, Michael Wawee, Sarah Dunham, Levi Wawee, and Ariane (Greg) Tromp; and lifelong friends, Aaron “Bear” Reichert, Lisa Marie Seymour, Thomas Seymour, Alan Halstead and Eric Mead; several nieces and nephews and too many friends to list. The funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday Feb 4, 2026 at Remembrance Church, 4575 Remembrance Rd NW. Visitation will be held from 2-4 and 6-8 PM on Tuesday Feb 3 at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home-Alt and Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW. Interment in Rosedale Memorial Park. Contributions in his memory may be made to Western Little League. To celebrate Dave’s life, please share a favorite memory or picture on his dedicated memory page at heritagelifestory.com