David Lee Voelker

David was born in Pontiac, Michigan, and grew up in Rochester, where he attended Rochester High School. Drafted during the Vietnam Era, he married his sweetheart, Mary Ann, and together they lived in Germany during his military service. After returning home, they briefly lived in Royal Oak, Michigan, where their son was born. In 1977, the family moved to Florida and made their home in Temple Terrace.

David lived his life on his own terms. He was a private man—strong, practical, and deeply human. Those who knew him well understood that he expressed care through action rather than words.

An entrepreneur by nature, David owned and operated Dave’s Maintenance and Pressure Washing by Dave, building each business through steady work, reliability, and trust. Through his work, he formed quiet friendships and lasting relationships with those he served.

He enjoyed boating and fishing, especially along the Hillsborough River; was a master of the grill; and took pride in making homemade beef jerky that was always in demand. He taught by doing—how to bait a hook, how to fix what was broken, how to keep moving forward. He also had a lifelong fondness for motorcycles and the idea of the open road, a reflection of his independent spirit.

Near the end of his life, David was direct, as he had always been. He made it clear that when he was gone, those he loved should go on.

David leaves behind his wife of 54 years, Mary Ann Voelker, and his son, David J. Voelker, who were the center of his life. He is also survived by his brother, Charles Voelker and his wife, Marie, of Roanoke, VA; his sister, Tara Riley, and her husband, Jim, of Lutz, FL; and numerous nieces and nephews.

David was loved, and loved in return. He will be remembered for his steady presence, his independence, and the quiet ways he showed care.

He will be interred at Sunset Memory Gardens.

A small service will be held with family and close friends.