David Franklin Gunnink, age 63, of Byron Center, Michigan, was called to his heavenly home on March 2, 2024.

Dave always found comfort in the words of Psalm 23. He was a thoughtful and humble man with a kind spirit, who cherished his family deeply. Dave loved spending time with his seven grandchildren and treasured moments with his family. His wife was not only his world but also his best friend, his rock, and his everything. He loved cooking and bringing meals to those in need within his church family. He expressed his creativity in his hobby of welding metal art. For over 40 years, Dave dedicated himself with a strong work ethic to his profession as a tool and die maker.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Lois Gunnink. Dave will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 38 years, Ruth Gunnink; his children and grandchildren, Heather and Kevin Deemter (Elle, Maddox, Theo, and Violet), Jordan and Katie Gunnink (Maci, Paige, and Dylan); brothers and sisters, Cindy and Jim Raterink, Deb Gunnink, Fred and Liz Gunnink, Greg and Angela Gunnink; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Carey and Lois Kamps, Dave and Karla Kamps, Lavonne and Terry Kooienga, Sandra and Jim Westing, Lynn and Larry Van Overloop, Jonathon and Tricia Kamps; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 7, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Byron Center Protestant Reformed Church, 1945 84th St. SW, Byron Center, with Rev. Garrett Eriks officiating. The burial will take place at Winchester Cemetery. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Wednesday, March 6, from 4-7 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW and on Thursday from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service at the church. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Unity PRC Future Building Fund.