David James Timmerman

Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on November 17, 1944 to the late Howard and Wilma (Spoelstra) Timmerman, David was a proud and devoted family man. He married the love of his life, Linda Louise Pell, on September 30, 1966, and together they shared 59 incredible years.

David was a man of exemplary character, with a strong sense of loyalty and a kind heart. His work ethic was apparent in the many offers for promotion he received at General Motors, but he always chose his family, turning down positions that would have taken him away from them. His spiritual leadership was shown within the home, his devotion to the church was exhibited in his service as a deacon, and his love of worship was apparent in his many years in the church choir. Every decision David made was a conscious choice to serve the Lord, his wife, and his family. It only took a moment to see him with one of his grandchildren to witness the kindness in his heart.

A proud veteran of the U.S. Army, David served his country from 1966 to 1968, including a tour in Vietnam with the 1st Cavalry Division. His Major lauded him for his exemplary loyalty and for always exhibiting the traits of an officer though his rank as an SP5. He was a highly decorated soldier, earning a Purple Heart, a Silver Star, and a Bronze Star, and served as a military police officer. David retired from General Motors in 2005 after 32 years of service. He was a longtime member of the First Reformed Church in Grandville.

David’s love for nature was a central part of his life, a passion he shared with his family at every opportunity. He enjoyed taking them on hikes along wooded trails and bringing them hunting and fishing. An avid outdoorsman, David loved hunting deer, turkey, woodcock, and grouse. He was especially passionate about fly fishing on the Au Sable River, and when he wasn't fishing, he was tying his own flies in preparation for his next trip. David also enjoyed traveling, but above all of his passions, his greatest love was for his family, with whom he cherished every moment.

David’s legacy will be carried on by his loving wife, Linda; and their children Michael (Kelly) Timmerman, Jeffrey (Laura) Timmerman, and Stephanie (Dr. Marc) Schlatter. He is also survived by his grandchildren Alexis (Garrett) Christensen, Christopher Timmerman, Colton Timmerman, Claire Timmerman, DeShea (Jason) Knipp, and Stacey (Ian) Barr; and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Howard (Micki) Timmerman; sister, Barbara (Don) Klooster; sister-in-law, Barbara (Art) Long; brothers-in-law Bob (Susan) Pell, Rick (Sarah) Pell; sister-in-law, Mary (the late Tom) Pell; numerous nieces and nephews; and his faithful dog and hunting companion, Parker.

David was preceded in death by his parents Howard and Wilma; father-in-law and mother-in-law Robert and Dorine Pell; brother-in-law, Kenneth Pell; and his granddaughter, Catherine Timmerman.

Visitation with family and friends will take place from 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. Monday September 15, 2025 at First Reformed Church, 3060 Wilson Ave. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. A celebration of life will follow at 12 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to American Heart Association. The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.

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