David Elwyn LaNew

He was born in Adrian, MI on November 14, 1941 to Otis (Ray) and Martha (Waldeck) LaNew. Dave and Melody were married for 52 years, and they had two sons together, Matt (Julia) LaNew of West Haven, UT and Jay (Jill) LaNew of Clarksville, MI.

Dave served 10 years in the United States Navy as a Pattern Woodmaker. He then returned to Grand Rapids, MI where he met and married Melody (Johnson) LaNew on April 12, 1969. In addition to their sons, Dave and Melody shared four grandchildren: Blake Niethamer LaNew, Shelby LaNew, Gage LaNew, and Blane LaNew.

Dave was a floor covering installer for over 20 years. He then went to work for Alto LP Gas Company, where he acquired his CDL and mechanical license to deliver propane and service equipment. He retired in 2004.

Dave and Melody enjoyed camping, traveling, snowmobiling, and riding their Harley-Davidson. Dave spent much of his time tinkering in the shop with Matt and Jay, showing them how to work on cars and fix other things around the house. Friends, relatives, and neighbors will remember him as always willing to provide a helping hand, never wanting anything in return, and able to put life into perspective with a short phrase or saying.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, brother Dana LaNew, daughter Loretta Tuttle, grandson Richard Scott, and their Welsh Corgi named Misty. He is survived by his wife, sons, daughter Linda LaNew Scott, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as a special aunt and uncle Herald and Joyce Bassett.

A memorial visitation will be held on September 19, 2021 at the Lakewood United Methodist Church from 1pm until 3pm, 10265 Brown Rd, Lake Odessa, MI 48849. Private family burial will take place later.