Traverse City, Michigan
FRANKFORT "" David E. Aldridge passed away in his Frankfort home on May 10, 2007, his 65th birthday. He was surrounded by his beloved friends and family during the last days of his battle with cancer.
David was born in Traverse City, and raised in South Boardman, the son of Gordon D. and Gretchen E. (Neihardt) Aldridge. He graduated from Kalkaska High School with the Class of 1960. On Aug. 4, 1962, he married the former Ethel Cross in Kalkaska.
He owned and operated Aldridge's Standard Service in Kalkaska and worked as chief diesel mechanic at F and J Tractor in Kalkaska and Luedtke Engineering in Frankfort prior to opening Harbor Antiques in Frankfort. He then put his creative powers to work masterfully restoring antique furniture.
David was an avid bird lover who delighted in rare sightings, and kept a birder's life list and diary. His most recent passion was restoration of a 1932 Buick coupe, which gathered crowds and took high honors wherever it went.
David is remembered by his family and many friends in Michigan and Florida as the guy who could repair anything and who would go out of his way to help anyone. He will be greatly missed.
David is survived by his wife, Ethel (Cross); sister, Nancy (Ed) Schneider; his children, Wendy (Charlie) McDaniel, Dan (Chris) Aldridge, Heather (Greg) Krawzoff; grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A private graveside service was held at the Boardman Township Cemetery with his son-in-law, Charlie McDaniel officiating.
Memorials in his memory may be directed to Munson Hospice and Palliative Care or the National Audubon Society.
Arrangements were made by Wolfe-O'Neill Funeral Home, our family serving yours.
This obituary was originally published in the Record-Eagle.
Dear Ethel,
I was suprised and sorry to hear of Dave's homegoing. The loss of three loved ones in a short period of time is not easy. God doesn't make mistakes, but there are times when we don't understand. We will certainly be praying for you and the family.
Fraser Vipond
May 30, 2007 | Bradenton, FL
Ethel we are so srry that we did not get a time that we could get togather with you and Dave . We did not know about his sickness. Dave was a very good friend and a great fishing partner.Would love to get togather some time when possable.
Wayne and Genny Hartzell
Wayne Hartzell
May 17, 2007 | Kalkaska, MI
We remember Dave as a warm, gentle and humble man, a gracious host; and, a cider maker extraordinaire. He will always be close to our hearts.
Ron and Sherryl Hellenga
May 15, 2007 | Traverse City, MI
I am sorry about the loss of your grandfather Heather and Dan, as i have known you both for a very long time.
Angela ( Plamp) Dudynskyj
May 14, 2007 | Brethren, MI
