David E. Kargela, age 69, of White Lake, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, September 5, 2025, with his family by his side. He was born on April 18, 1956, the son of William I. and Thursa M. (née Taipalus) Kargela.
David graduated from the American School in London in 1974. On February 10, 1978, he married the love of his life, Linda D. Dembeck. Together, they raised two children, Becky and Brian.
As a child, David lived in Argentina, Mexico, and England while his father’s work with Ford took the family abroad. He began his career with Elias Brothers Big Boy, working first as a restaurant manager and later as a bakery manager. He then attended Oakland Community College, where he studied electrical, heating and cooling, and plumbing, before joining the Kmart headquarters in Troy in building maintenance.
David was a true “Mr. Putz” who loved working around the house and yard—trimming trees, chipping branches, and keeping everything in order. He enjoyed smoking meats, woodworking (creating birdhouses, feeders, and even a toy box), and spending time with his family. A trip to the cottage in the Keweenaw was always special, where he cherished time with relatives, rode with Linda and their dog Finley through the autumn woods to Copper Harbor, and took pride in maintaining the family cottage in Lake Linden.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Linda; daughter Becky (Mike) Emmons of Pinckney; son Brian of Garden City; sister Karen (Earl) Campbell of Sanford; and beloved granddaughters Shelby and Mackenzie Emmons. He is also remembered by many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Bill and wife Joan; great-nephew Noah Grow; grandparents; and many aunts and uncles.
A memorial gathering will be held on October 19, 2025 at the OverTyme Grill & Tap Room located at 4724 Dixie Highway, Waterford, Michigan from 1-4 pm.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Michigan Animal Rescue or Four Paws cat and K-9 Rescue, where you can Venmo to Fourpawscatk9 or Cash App to $Fourpawscatk9 or my mail to 6562 Pear Lane, Clarkston, Michigan 48346.
