David Lynn Sauber

David was born on October 22, 1936, in Napoleon, Ohio—the county seat of Henry County, located southwest of Toledo along the Maumee River. From an early age, David demonstrated an entrepreneurial spirit and a tireless work ethic that remained with him throughout his life. His first job, at age eight, was cleaning fire-damaged bricks. Other early jobs included shining shoes, pushing an ice cream cart, and mowing lawns.

David attended St. Augustine Catholic School through elementary and grade school. He later transferred to Wawasee Prep School, attending from 1950 to 1953, and graduated from Napoleon High School in 1954, where he participated in football and track. He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1958, stationed in Germany. Upon returning, David earned a bachelor’s degree in Business from The Ohio State University in 1962. In 1965, he married Mary Colleen Crahan, also of Napoleon, Ohio.

Known for his storytelling, humor, and deep love of football and sports trivia, David spent a remarkable 50 years in the tire industry. He worked with Seiberling Tire and Dayton Tire but spent the majority of his distinguished career with Bridgestone Americas (formerly Firestone Tire & Rubber Company) as the National Manager of Dealer Sales. His career brought him great pride, lifelong friendships, and the opportunity to travel widely. Even after retirement, he continued working as a private consultant to Bridgestone Americas.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, David was active in his community. He served on the Board of Directors for the Catholic Service League of Akron and was a loyal supporter of the Kent Roosevelt High School football program. He was also an involved member of the 9 by 12 Firestone Retirement Group and the Gum Dippers—social clubs for retirees and longtime associates of Bridgestone and Firestone.

David spent many years pursuing the elusive perfect golf swing and was a proud member of both Firestone Country Club in Akron, Ohio, and Mullett Lake Country Club in Mullett Lake, Michigan. His beloved second home at Mullett Lake was a cherished retreat, where he enjoyed landscaping, gardening, and relaxing on the porch with a view of the water. At Mullett Lake Country Club, David served as Chairman of the Golf Committee for 20 years and held numerous positions on the Board of Directors, including Club President in 2007 and 2008.

David was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Mary Colleen; his parents, Marion and Mary (Foelker) Sauber; and his younger brother, Fredrick Sauber. He is survived by his daughters, Katie Sauber of Louisville, KY, and Molly (Eric) Stevens of Collierville, TN; and by his four grandchildren—Luke Stevens, Charlie Stevens, MeMe Steinbock, and Liam Steinbock—who brought him immense joy and pride.

He is also survived by his siblings: Heidi Sauber of Wauseon, OH; John Sauber of Sun City, FL and Mary (John) Nemec of Kent, OH. David was a beloved uncle—known fondly as Uncle, Unkie, or Bro—to many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in his heart.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Augustine Church in Napoleon, Ohio, at 11:00 a.m. on July 11th. David’s ashes will be interred at Maple Grove Cemetery in Mullett Lake, Michigan. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Cheboygan, Michigan, or to MAPS (The Mullett Lake Area Preservation Society).