David John Fortenbacher

David John Fortenbacher, 88, passed away peacefully at his home in Grand Haven, Michigan, on March 2, 2026.
David was born on February 11, 1938, in Muskegon, Michigan, to Lee and Aloise Fortenbacher. He graduated from Muskegon Heights High School in 1956 and proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy for two years. After his service, he attended Parks College, where he earned his Airframe and Power Plant Certificate. David began his career in the Aircraft Department at Continental Motors, where he worked for three years. He later spent ten years with Executive Air Transport as Director of Maintenance before continuing his career with Great Lakes Construction and then starting his own heavy equipment construction company. David married Nancy Bartrand of Muskegon, and together they welcomed two sons, David (Sandi) and Todd (Diane). In 1997, he married Ann Marie Butcher, and through that marriage he warmly welcomed his stepdaughter, Dawn Butcher Buitenhuis (Rob), and stepson, Patrick Butcher (Karin), into his family. In 1998, David personally cut and milled 550 red pine logs to build their dream home-a project that reflected both his remarkable work ethic and craftsmanship. An avid outdoorsman and adventurer, David loved traveling throughout the U.S, Canada, and Mexico. He spent many happy years fishing, hunting, and enjoying time with family and friends. He also had a lifelong passion for aviation and, for enjoyment, rebuilt and flew both a 1948 Aeronca Champ and a 1952 Mooney aircraft. David will be remembered for his warm smile, big bear hugs, generous spirit, and endless stories. Always willing to lend a helping hand, he was known for helping anyone, anywhere, at any time. A hardworking and proud, tough German with a gentle heart, David left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He cherished time with his family and took great pride in his two sons, stepdaughter, and stepson, as well as his 12 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.
David was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Linda and Mary. He is survived by his loving wife, Ann; his brother, Michael; his children; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and extended family. A Mass will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Spring Lake on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will take place prior to the service from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the church. Memorial contributions may be made in David's honor to Wings of Mercy or Michigan Outdoor Wishmakers.