David W. Kaczor

Dave was born on November 4, 1943, in Dearborn, Michigan, to the late Walter and Lorraine Kaczor. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Patrick.

Dave graduated from Chadsey High School and went on to attend Wayne State University before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy. During his three years of service, he flew surveillance missions in the Arctic Circle for military intelligence, spending countless hours in the air. In fact, he flew so much during those years that later in life he preferred to keep his feet firmly on the ground, opting for long road trips with a stack of Rand McNally maps until GPS finally convinced him there might be an easier way. His love of maps never faded. As recently as June 17, one of his final requests was for an updated map of Michigan, a small but fitting reminder of his lifelong curiosity and love of the journey.

Following his military service, Dave built a successful career at Ford Motor Company, where he worked in the engineering department for 40 years. He approached his work with the same steady dedication, reliability, and quiet excellence that characterized every aspect of his life.

David was the loving and devoted husband of Karen for 31 years. Together, they were truly two peas in a pod. Their partnership was built on love, laughter, faith, and friendship, and they genuinely enjoyed spending time together. Anyone who knew them could see the affection and joy they shared.

He was the beloved father of Debra (Wayne) DeLong, Amy (Scott) Henson, and Larry (Lori) Henson Jr. He was a proud Papa to Joshua (Kimberly), Alyssa (Austin), Wesley, Amber, and Olivia, and a cherished great-grandfather to Colton, Ella, Gregory, Raelyn, Hudson, and Steven.

David believed that being there mattered. Whether it was a grandchild's event, a friend's project, a family celebration, a time of need, or simply an ordinary Tuesday, he showed up. Family and friends alike knew they could count on him. He rarely made a fuss about it; he was simply there when it mattered most.

Though David was not a man of many words, he had a gift for making them count. He believed in quality over quantity when it came to conversation. He could deliver a perfectly timed joke, a thoughtful observation, or a piece of wisdom that would leave you smiling or thinking long after the conversation ended. He never felt the need to fill silence, but when he spoke, people listened.

A devoted Christian, David lived his faith quietly but deeply. His well-worn Bible tells the story better than words ever could. Its pages are filled with highlighted passages, handwritten notes, folded corners, prayers, reflections, and memories gathered over a lifetime of study. His faith guided him through life's joys and challenges and remained a constant source of strength and comfort.

In his spare time, David was passionate about volunteering and dedicated many hours to Habitat for Humanity. He enjoyed scuba diving, gold mining, golfing, and tackling the crossword puzzle in The Detroit News. He took pride in how he dressed and was rarely underdressed for an occasion, though family members may gently note that he occasionally paired socks with sandals. Like all of us, he had his own way of doing things.

David will be remembered for his kindness, reliability, faith, quiet humor, generous spirit, and unwavering love for his family. He leaves behind countless memories, stories, lessons, and laughs that will continue to be shared by those fortunate enough to have known him.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, July 1, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan.

An in-state gathering will be held on Thursday, July 2, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Ward Church, 40000 Six Mile Road, Northville, Michigan, followed by a funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m., where David will receive military honors.

He will be laid to rest at Great Lakes National Cemetery at a later date.

The family finds comfort in knowing that David is now at peace in the presence of the Lord he faithfully served throughout his life.