David Carl Ironside

David Carl Ironside, age 67 of Warren, passed away Sunday, March 21, 2021 at Ascension St. John Hospital in Warren. He was born May 5, 1953 in Providence, Rhode Island, son of the late Frank Austin and the late Frances Lillian (nee: Taylor) Ironside.

Though David was not defined by his work, there is always something impressive and noteworthy about a person who dedicates themselves to 46 years with the same company,…as he did. Proud to be part of the family at the Chrysler Motor Company, David’s skills and expertise were widely sought after, especially in his last 24 years as he was an integral part of the team responsible for building the iconic Dodge Viper. One of Chrysler’s most intriguing and head-turning creations, Dave was honored to have been chosen to bring the car from design to fruition.

Speaking of big engines and sleek bodies, Dave was also quite the NASCAR fan, a sport he shared and enjoyed with his father, Frank. Together the two managed to rack up quite a few trips to the Michigan International Speedway where NASCAR hosted 2 races each year, one of them which was always on Father’s Day. It was just one of the great ways that this Father & Son team were able to build upon the wonderful relationship they shared together. Dave was an extremely dedicated son and was always there for his Dad.

Likewise, Dave was also quite the dedicated and devoted father and grandfather, always doting on and bragging about his kids and grandkids. He loved each of them immensely, unselfishly, and would drop everything to help and support them in both good times and bad. Whether he was down on the floor with cars or dolls, or parading around with a bottle of bubbles, his little ones will forever remember those precious moments when Dad and Grandpa was able to be a little kid himself again. As each of his girls grew up and became responsible adults, Dave never missed an opportunity to acknowledge their achievements and sing their praises,…for he was truly a Proud Papa. And this was especially evident the day his eldest daughter decided she wanted to follow in Dad’s footsteps at Chrysler’s. You just about had to pick him off the ceiling when she shared the news. If all of this wasn’t enough, add to it the fact that Dave’s love found him boarding numerous flights over the years to visit his daughter & grandchildren who had relocated to Australia. A 23 hour flight was a small price to pay to be reunited with one of his babies,…and her babies as well. That’s just the kind of Dad his girls knew him to be.

As family and friends reflect on Dave’s life, one of the most prominent aspects that is sure to stand out is how much he loved his hair. Known affectionately (and humorously) by many as a Long-Haired Hippy, Dave embodied the essence of the 60’s,…and yes, was all about Peace, Love & Happiness. But the love of his hair was not merely in vain, as many will recall just how often Dave donated his hair for children’s charities. Again, even more of his selfless nature being humbly displayed.

There were many ways that Dave chose to unwind and bring a little balance to life, and one of them was by sharing that distinctive voice of his through the fun of karaoke singing. Not only could he croon a tune, but Dave wowed & amazed many with his singing talent,…and even won himself a competition or two in the process. He also garnered great joy and pleasure from being challenged, with family by his side, as they engaged in coming up with the questions to the answers on Jeopardy. Always a game to feed the intellect, Dave and Crew were easily drawn in to the iconic game show. He will also be remembered for his devotion to the lottery. Feeling like that “Big Win” was just around the corner, he continued to play, and pray, that his numbers would come along.

Being the food lover he was, Dave was always up for a Chicken Dinner,…especially if it was being served by those Bavarian Beauties in Frankenmuth. One of Michigan’s most noted landmarks and tourist locales, there are many facets of the familiar hamlet that set it apart, but its chicken dinners reign supreme. And every now and then, Dave would take it up a notch by ordering some of those delectable Chicken Livers. Only the best for a true chicken connoisseur. But perhaps he will be best noted for his favorite meal-du-jour, Spam Casserole. We’ll just leave it there.

Dave was quite the character, and was imbued with one as well. He was one of those “what you see is what you get” kind of dudes. He never had a mean thing to say about anyone,…(well, most anyone). He was always friendly and not adverse to making small talk with anyone. Dave treated people like he knew them forever. You might have been somewhat new to his circle of friends, but you never would have known it. He was also the kind of guy who wouldn’t allow you to be sad for very long. If he sensed you were, then you could expect all kinds of silliness to break out. Sad definitely equaled the silly treatment. And lastly, Dave was nothing but a moosh-ball at heart. In his strength, he wasn’t afraid to shed a tear,…as witnessed by his daughters one day when sharing the Disney movie, The Little Mermaid.

A loving father and grandfather, Dave leaves us far too soon, but not without imparting the best of himself into the hearts and souls of all he knew. He leaves a legacy of love that will keep him close with each reflection shared, and his guardian spirit is sure to shine in every beam of sunlight from above. He touched many lives in his journey this side of Heaven, may he know the blessings on the other side as he rests safely in the arms of God. He will be missed beyond expression and loved beyond measure.  

David was the beloved father of Kimberly (John) McDaniel, Tammy (Benjamin) Duff, Angela (Eric) Lewandowski, and Terrie (Jason) Edmunds. Loving grandfather of David, Alexander, Cameron, Emily, Vanessa, Ethan, Louis, and June. Dear brother of Lillian Marie Harper, Russell Allen Ironside, John Hendric Ironside, Frank Austin Ironside Jr., and Donna Lee (Joseph) Kulesza.

Visitation for David will be held Sunday, March 28th from 3-9 pm at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd) in Warren, Michigan.

His Funeral Service will take place on Monday, 11:00 am at the funeral home. Officiating the service will be Pastor Tracy Harold. David’s Committal Service & Burial will follow the funeral service at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, Michigan.

Memorial donations are welcomed to the American Diabetes Association, 30200 Telegraph Road, suite 105, Bingham Farms, Michigan 48025. (www.diabetes.org)

Please share memories of David at his guest book below.