David Francis Diegel

David F. Diegel, age 88, passed away on August 3, 2025, surrounded by family. Beloved husband of the late Marilyn. Loving father of Kevin, Paul (Gail), Cheryl (Thomas) Walker, Randy (Renae), and the late Gary, Mark (Lena) and David Diegel. Grandfather of 10, and great grandfather of 4. Beloved son of the late Elmer and Leonita Diegel. Dear brother of Carl (Fran), and the late Richard and Lauralee (Pete) Povenzino.

David was born February 18th, 1937, in Detroit Michigan. One of three sons and a sister to Elmer and Leonita. Some of his best early days stories included pedaling papers, working at the butcher shop throwing knives, and later at the hardware store glazing windows. His fondest car was an early 1940’s Hudson his father helped him maintain. Many of his stories evolved around family, cars, and early childhood.

David was a proud 1955 graduate of Nativity High School where he met his wife, Marilyn, of 62 years. Here his best memories were of playing football; playing both ways as a standout lineman. His proudest moments included underdog games and being recognized on the bus ride home by the coach. Mom’s favorite story was meeting him at the hospital when he had his teeth kicked out and wearing his varsity sweater.

David’s storied career started shortly thereafter at the General Motors Tech Center. He was a dedicated employee known for his untiring work ethic and attention to detail. His career included special assignments downtown at the old World Headquarters and in England with the heavy truck team. David’s 37 year career started at Chevrolet and concluded as a supervisor with Truck and Bus. Part II commenced at Ford Motor Company for 11 years. He treasured his memories with the Ford SVT engineers working on the return of the 2000MY Cobra R. His proud contributions were mentioned in private publications and his picture appeared on corporate posters. He was admired and valued by many in the automotive industry.

The most enduring and impactful time of David’s life was as a CYO Football coach. Starting as head coach at St. Raymond in 1963 and concluding in 1982 after a 21 year run at St. Veronica. Often coaching with his brother Carl and brother-in-law Chuck, his early winning seasons paled to his deliverance of life inspiring fundamentals. Coach measured success by effort expelled, not by the score board. He was known for his unselfish commitment to the many intramural baseball kids who wanted to play for fun. David single handily ran the program and umpired 6 games a week. His devotion to the Men’s club and parish as well as the CYO was deeply recognized. With the advent of social media, many players have returned to convey the impact Coach Diegel has had on their lives. To this day, he is referred to by many as “Coach”.

David’s later life was intercepted by relaxing times and deep sorrow with the loss of three sons and a wife. An avid movie watcher included continuous runs of Brain’s Song, My All-American, Longest Yard.. and Mom’s selection of Magic of Belle Isle and You Got Mail. His daughter Cheryl and family took on the caretaker task and swept him away to music in the Park. David was a blessed story teller with a memory of fine details. Better days were often created sharing the happier long ago memories. Friday visits by his brother Carl were invaluable.

David’s last days were a culminating display of internal strength and fight. Any “Blue Ray” or “Viking” can rest be assured he executed in the same manner he demanded from all. His spirit out rivaled his tired body and will live on in all that have crossed his path.

A Memorial Visitation will be held Saturday, August 23rd 9:30am at St. Veronica Catholic Church in Eastpointe until the time of the Memorial Mass at 10:00am.