David Lee Murner

David Lee Murner, 81, of Fife Lake, a loving husband, father, grandpa, and uncle, passed away peacefully on Nov. 14, 2022, in his home. Born September 15, 1941, in New Martinsville, West Virginia to Ezra and Vernice Murner, the 3rd of 6 children. In 1959 Dave enlisted in the United States Navy and served his country faithfully for 22 years, retiring in 1981 to the Traverse City area. On Sept 27, 1969, while stationed at Colt’s Neck New Jersey, Dave married the love of his life Diane Waelchli, spending 53 beautiful years together. They raised two wonderful children, Michael and Patty while traveling together in the United States and abroad. Dave was a devoted husband and father and greatly enjoyed the life they built together. During his time in the Service, he received many citations, awards, and medals for his professional achievements and superior performance. He advanced to the top of the enlisted ranks as Command Master Chief. Upon relocating to the Fife Lake area, the family fulfilled their lifelong dream of building a beautiful log home to raise their children and spend their retirement years together. Joining the local Baptist Church, Dave served joyfully and faithfully in the function and activities of the church. Dave was a godly, God-fearing man and was considered the spiritual leader of the family. Dave’s greatest joy for several years was his weekly visits to the Traverse City area nursing homes sharing the gospel and bringing many of the lost to a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Dave deeply loved his family, had great joy in his heart for little children and showed much compassion for the elderly. Dave had a love for the great outdoors, camping with his family, gardening, picnicking in the park, and taking long walks in the woods with his best friend Grumpy, his beloved dog. Dave will be lovingly remembered by his wife Diane Murner of 53 years; son Michael Murner; Daughter Patty Roussety; son-in-law Aldo Roussety; Grandchildren Matthew, Steven, Taylor, and Ellie; brothers John, Bill, and Danny Murner; brother-in-law Larry Walls; sister-in-law Joan Walls, sister-in-law Marilyn Waelchli, aunts, cousins, nieces, and nephews and all who knew him. Dave knew Jesus as his Lord and Savior and longed for his return. His family members are confident that he is now at home and safe in the arms of Jesus. Dave’s Celebration of Life will be held at Rollins Christian Fellowship Church (10985 E. M42, Manton, MI. 49633) on Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022, at 11:00 AM. Arrangements have been entrusted to Kalkaska Funeral Home.

David Lee Murner

September 15, 1941 - November 14, 2022