David "Crockett" Mamagona Jr.

David Mamagona, Jr., age 66 of Grand Rapids, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, August 20, 2021. He was born in Detroit on April 7, 1955 to David Mamagona Sr. and Laura (Stevens) Mamagona. David was known to friends and family as “Crockett”, a nickname his father coined after Davey Crockett.

After graduating from Central Michigan University, David taught at many schools, including Holy Spirit School, St. Stephen Catholic School, Shawmut Hills Middle School, Creston High School, and Lincoln Developmental.

As a lifelong learner and teacher, much of David’s free time was built around studying and researching new things; he was a knowledge junkie. He particularly enjoyed bird watching and reporting his various sightings to the Audubon Society.

David was an active volunteer for Gilda’s Club, especially for their LaughFest events, and he recently joined the Knights of Columbus. He also enjoyed playing golf.

David is survived by the love of his life, Sherri (Sydow), of 43 years; his sons: Peter (Krista Alef) and David; his grandson Carter, along with Carter’s mom, Kimmie Warner; his sister, June Mamagon Fletcher, and his nephews: Matthew (Wenona) and Zeke (Katie) Fletcher; his faithful, furry companion, Goose; and his “grand” dogs, Lake and Libby Lou. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Richard Fletcher.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday August 26, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Alphonsus Parish, and a visitation with the family to follow.

In lieu of flowers, David’s family asks that donations be made to Young at Heart Program at St. Alphonsus Parish.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.reyersnorthvalleychapel.com for the Mamagona family.