David Leo Stelmaszek, 75, of Farmington, Michigan, left us on September 7. Needless to say, it was way too soon. He was kind, selfless, generous, principled, steadfast, hopeful, and creative. Without a doubt, he is currently somewhere celestial with a guitar on his knee.

Born September 30, 1948, on the west side of Detroit to Florence and Stanley Stelmaszek, he was their fourth of five children. Brothers Stas, Paul, and sisters Anne Marie, and Tasha grew up with David in a three-bedroom ranch on Arnold Street in Dearborn Heights.

A student of Sacred Heart Seminary, he was bound for priesthood until the 11th grade when he decided to transfer to Riverside High. To this day this is a decision his wife Nancy insists was not motivated by her appearance in his life and one for which his children Christine Eccleston, Michael Stelmaszek, and Mark Stelmaszek are eternally grateful.

Albeit a little later than originally scheduled, David graduated from The University of Detroit Mercy as valedictorian of the class of 1994 and then went on to earn an MBA. Never afraid of hard work and unwavering in his commitment to fulfilling his obligations, he worked at bakeries, an auto factory, a steel mill, and as an officer of the court, sometimes simultaneously. His employment eventually took him to the world of credit unions where his work ethic and intellect grew him from drive-thru teller to a vice president.

Even in retirement he worked. Both scheduling tee times and on his handicap which we will declare here definitively and officially as a 12.

Make that a ten.

His seven grandchildren Drew and Avery Eccleston, Olivia, Jillian, Isabelle, Emmaline, and Penelope Stelmaszek will remember him as a giant fan of their dance, marching band, orchestra, soccer, field hockey, lacrosse, art, trap shooting, track, and rock band exploits. His annual care packages of Valentine’s chocolate and love for some of the best (worst) dad jokes ever conceived will be dearly missed.

His legacy is one of decency.

His love was never doubted and will always be felt.

His life will be celebrated 11am on September 21st at Thayer-Rock Funeral Home in Farmington, MI. 

David's memorial service will be livestreamed, please Click Here