Obituaries

Age 86, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 2, 2024, at the Chelsea Retirement Community. He was born June 9, 1937, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of William & Lenora (Staebler) Staebler.

Dave spent his early years working with horses and cattle, which led him to a career on ranches in several states. Upon returning to Michigan, he worked at Halliburton, Chrysler Proving Grounds. Finally, he retired from the University of Michigan after 22 years in various roles such as trucking, campus courier, and working directly with the President. He was a member of the First Congregational Church of Chelsea. 

Dave was a passionate individual who loved horses and cattle. He would often enjoy a cup of coffee and share some wild and crazy stories about his past, such as when he rode his horse into the V.I. in Grass Lake! Dave was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it.

He would have achieved 40 years of sobriety in June and knew the importance of AA meetings and mentorship. Dave was devoted to helping others in the program.

On Aug. 26, 1960, he married Judy Kay Crain in Ann Arbor, and she preceded him in death on February 20, 2014. Survivors include two sons, Adon (Laura) of Bonita Springs, FL, and Jeffrey (Robyn) of Munith; two sisters, Kathrine (Paul) Frisinger and MaryAnn (Rick) Rickerman; six grandchildren, Britt, Kali, Elsa, Andy, Garrett, and Mikayla; three great-grandchildren, Oliver, Elsie Kay and Carson; and several nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Paul Staebler, a granddaughter Gabrielle, and a brother-in-law Paul Frisinger.

A public visitation was be held at Cole Funeral Chapel on Tue, February 6th, from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, with a memorial service at 7 pm. You can watch the recording of the service here.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Washtenaw Alano Club in honor of David Staebler.