David Raab

Raab, David David Raab, age 52, of Hastings passed away at home after a long illness, with his friends and family around him on Wednesday, May 14, 2014. He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Janelle; daughter, Alexandra; parents, Eugene and Marjorie Raab, Kermit and Charlene Espeseth; sister, Mary Raab; as well as many close friends. Lt. Col. David Raab retired after 26 dedicated years in the US Air Force. Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m.Wednesday, May 21 at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave., Kentwood, with Rev. Gary Espeseth officiating. Interment Rest Lawn Memorial Park. Relatives and friends may meet the family Tuesday from 4-7pm at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Van Andel Institute.

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March 26, 2015

Mary, My condolences to you and your family. May you feel peace and comfort at this difficult time. Ginger Suess

March 26, 2015

Judy and I pray that you may find solace and peace in the sure knowledge of everlasting life. Jim Dunn

March 26, 2015

Our prayers are with you all. John and Jessica Soper

March 26, 2015

From a fellow Warrior, Dave was an absolute inspiration to be around, and in many ways, a very insightful mentor to me. He lived a truly honorable life. He always had a smile on his face, and a can-do attitude. Everyone looked up to him, and I always enjoyed hearing his stories he had to tell. He will forever be missed, and never forgotten. I wish comfort and love to all family and friends during this time of hardship. Blayne Nation

March 26, 2015

Whether high above the clouds in flight, in the concrete underground confines of the Cold War, or in heated pursuit on the hunt, Dave always was at the ready with a witty "one liner" or if time permitted a story or tale. I am honored to have called Dave my friend and will miss him. Our prayers go out to the family. May your warm memroies help lessen the sorrow and Faith see you through each new tomorrow. Joseph Hapy

March 26, 2015

I am so sorry to hear about Dave. I had the honor of serving in the Air Force at the same time as him. I was just an enlisted young man during the late 1980s when I met him at Wurstmith AFB, and you wouldn't know he was a captain by the way he acted. He was the most humble and down to earth officer I ever met. Unfortunately, I lost track of him until now. My prayers are with the family. Tim Moore

March 26, 2015

Dave was one person on my small list of favorite people who I have met in my life. Dave was fun to work with. Dave was fun to hunt with. And, most importantly, Dave was a wonderful father and husband. Dave was one of the few people left in this world that would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. We will all miss your witty personality. Godspeed Dave Raab. Bill Young

March 26, 2015

My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Rest in peace Dave. Rick Salmons rick salmons

March 26, 2015

Dave was the best friend a guy could have. I'll always look to the sky and know he's up there keeping things lively. I was privileged to be part of his life. My deepest sympathy to all of his family. Brian Dawson

March 26, 2015

I am sorry to hear about Dave's illness and passing. We failed to keep in touch after high school, but I know we will see each other again one day. I am blessed to have great memories of our times together and his hilarious responses to life's moments. I pray that God will hold us close and fill our hearts as we grieve. Mark Lobbezoo

March 26, 2015

We were sorry sorry to hear of the passing of Dave. We came to know him at the cancer center where Ron was also in cancer treatment. We always enjoyed talking with Dave and admired the way he always made the rounds talking with and encouraging others. Love and prayers to your family. Ronald Tryc

March 26, 2015

I've never had a better Aircraft Commander and crew since serving on R-35 and E-35 as your navigator. My families deepest sympathies to you and yours during this difficult time. God Bless, Lou and Cindy White Amherst, NH Lou White

March 26, 2015

So sorry for your loss Janelle.. If you get back this way, would love to get together with you... Take Care... Paula Soderquist

March 26, 2015

I was very sorry to learn from my parents about Dave's long illness and death. I went to high school with Dave and have not been in touch with him since then, but wanted to share my condolences with his family, especially his parents, Col. and Mrs. Raab. I always enjoyed Dave's terrific sense of humor and his sharp mind. He was a wonderful guy. We spent many hours together in the hallways and the swimming pool at East Kentwood High, and I was very glad to call him my friend. Jeff Rubin