David Vern Crockett

David Vern Crockett, age 94, of Cedarville, Michigan, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2026. He was born on July 3, 1931, in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, to Albert and Marguerite (Dupuy) Crockett. Dave was an Army veteran of the Korean War, where he put his surveying skills and keen problem-solving ability to use in the rebuilding of Japan. Following his military service, he returned to Sault Ste. Marie and married Mary Catherine Andary on August 13, 1955, at St. Joseph Church. The couple later moved to Mount Pleasant, Michigan, where Dave earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Conservation from the University of Michigan in 1959. While awaiting a conservation position with the Department of Natural Resources, Dave accepted a position as an inspector with the Food and Drug Administration in Detroit in 1962. In 1968, he relocated to Glen Ellyn, Illinois, continuing his career with the FDA’s Chicago District. He retired in 1989 after 27 years of dedicated service, having risen to the position of Deputy Director of the Investigation Branch. Dave shared an especially close bond with his brother Bert. Together with Dave’s wife Mary, they planned and spent their retirement years in Cedarville, Michigan. In 1970, they purchased land on Island #8, where the family spent summers and free time building what would become Dave and Mary’s retirement home. After retiring at the age of 58, Dave and Bert purchased a cabin cruiser, The Marguerite, and immersed themselves in boating education through the Coast Guard. They eventually joined the Coast Guard Auxiliary, where Dave served as Flotilla Commander. He especially enjoyed teaching navigation and boating safety classes, conducting vessel inspections, and serving on patrols. As the Flotilla grew, Dave struck a deal with his wife Mary: if she became the Auxiliary Secretary, he would attend church with her. That agreement led Dave to become deeply involved in Bethel Lutheran Church, where he remained an active and faithful member until his passing. At age 74, Dave once again answered a call to serve by volunteering to train as Cedarville’s daytime EMT. He remained a member of the Fire and Ambulance Corps into his mid-80s, later contributing in an administrative role. Dave was a brilliant and curious man who firmly believed that if there was something you didn’t know, you should go learn it. He never stopped learning or reading; when his eyesight began to fail, he turned to audiobooks and lectures and continued his lifelong pursuit of knowledge. He also enjoyed gardening and took great pride in his plants and outdoor spaces. As a student, Dave was required by the nuns to memorize poetry as discipline, an experience that stayed with him for life, as he was always ready with a well-timed poem or quote. Social by nature and full of life, Dave was always willing to help others and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Dave is survived by his children: David Vern Crockett Jr. (Darlene), Cynthia Selig, Joseph Crockett (Darlene), Rebecca Crockett, Kathy Letang (Dennis), and Robert Crockett (Maddie); 15 grandchildren; and 11.75 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Marguerite Crockett; his wife, Mary Crockett; his brother, Albert Crockett Jr.; and his son, Daniel Crockett. A Memorial Gathering will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM at the Bethel Lutheran Church, 217 M-129, Cedarville, MI 49719. The Memorial Service will follow immediately at 11:00 AM. A graveside service will be held on Dave's birthday, July 3, 2026, at the Cedar/Edgewood Cemetery in Cedarville. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dave’s memory to Clark Township Ambulance, P.O. Box 367, Cedarville, MI 49719; Bethel Lutheran Church, 217 N. M-129, Cedarville, MI 49719; or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Dave will be fondly remembered for his many sayings, known around town as “Davisims.” Family and friends are invited to share their favorite one, or a cherished memory, in the online guestbook. Family Life Funeral Homes – Pickford assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com. Obituary as submitted by family.

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David Vern Crockett

July 3, 1931 - January 24, 2026