David R. Hess

David R. Hess, 74, of Linwood, MI, passed away Monday, April 3, 2023, at the VA Hospital in Saginaw, MI. He had been recently diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Dave was born in Saginaw, MI, on December 16, 1948. He graduated from Douglas MacArthur High School in 1967, and began working for General Motors (GM). Dave was then drafted in May 1968, into the United States Army. He served 2 tours in Vietnam in the 11th Armored Cavalry, nicknamed Blackhorse, under the command of George S. Patton, Jr. Dave was wounded in a mine explosion and was temporarily paralyzed due to a severely bruised spine in October 1969. He was awarded a Purple Heart medal and honorably discharged for his service. Dave came home and returned to work at GM, Steering Gear Division, Plant #5. He retired after 32 years of service. He then went to work for Frank’s Great Outdoors in Linwood. For many years, he helped with grounds and maintenance. Dave had a passion for the outdoors. He was an avid hunter of all waterfowl, ducks, grouse, woodcock and pheasant. He enjoyed carving and making working decoys. He was a steward and conservationist for wildlife including Nayanquing Point State Wildlife Area near his home. Dave was a life member of the NRA, MUCC, Pheasants Forever and many others.

Surviving are his two brothers James A. Hess of Saginaw, MI, and John M. (Katie) Hess of Apache Junction, AZ; nieces and nephews Bruce (Jenny) Hess, Donna (Ronald) Richardson, Earl (Brenda) Hess, Cindy Aguillard, Amy (Aaron) Good, Nicholas Hess, Whitney (Adrien) Franco; great-nephew Aaron Aguillard. He was predeceased by his parents, Norman E., Sr. and Arlene Hess; brother Norman E. Hess, Jr.

There will be a celebration of life for Dave at the American Legion Crump Post 239, 557 N. Garfield Rd., Linwood, MI 48634, on Saturday, April 22, from 12 pm to
5 pm. Food and drinks will be provided. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Legion.

Dave’s final resting place will be at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI.

Rivertown Funeral Chapel, Kawkawlin, MI, was in charge of arrangements.