David Ahonen

He was born on September 9, 1939 in Trimountain, MI and was the youngest of 10 children. He recently celebrated his 84th birthday with his family. He graduated from Jeffers High School in 1957. Throughout his life he enjoyed camping, fishing and loved the Copper Country. David was employed by White Pine Copper Company for 34 years and retired in 1994. He was a Veteran having served in the US Army in Germany from 1957 to 1960. He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church of Hancock MI. On June 23, 1962, he married Ruth Hongisto. They were married for 60 years and David was heartbroken with the loss of his wife. He passed away of a broken heart 5 months later. They had been residing with his daughter Julie and son in law, James in St. Joseph MI since February of 2020. He is survived by his children, daughters Pamela (Thomas) Howe of Fenton MI, Julie (James) Thomsen of St. Joseph MI, and son, Richard (Brigitte) Ahonen of Palmetto FL. Grandchildren, Matthew (Cristina) Howe, Ashley and Melissa Howe, Dayton, Demi and Dylan Thomsen. Great Grandchild Lainey Howe. Also, numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. The family would like to thank Caring Circle and their Hospice team for their loving care. Cards and expressions of sympathy can be sent c/o Julie Thomsen, 1337 Whispering Trail, Benton Harbor MI 49022. Friends wishing to leave the family a message of condolence online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph MI.