David R. Horton

David R. Horton (Dave) of Davison, age 90, passed away January 25, holding hands with the of the love of his life, Margie. Dave was the fourth child of D. Marie (Hutchinson) and William Horton, born November 10, 1932 in Millington, MI. When driving through Millington, Dave never missed the opportunity to point out where he was born, revered as the “famous birthplace.” In his early years, Dave attended Bentley Schools, later moving to Davison. He graduated from Davison in 1951, then headed to GMI (Kettering) to pursue a degree in engineering. He graduated from GMI in 1956 with a dual degree in mechanical/industrial engineering. On Dave’s 12th birthday, he decided to attend church at Davison United Methodist Church for the first time. Dave always celebrated this “anniversary,” noting it was the best decision of his life; at church is where he met his future wife, Marjorie (Margie) Adams. Dave and Margie began dating on March 17, 1950. After their first date, Dave knew this was the woman he wanted to marry. They were wed in 1952, enjoying over 70 years together. Dave had fond memories as a teenager, working summers on his grandparents’ farm in Clare, MI. He often recalled the antics (and hard work) from those summers. Dave’s professional career at GM/AC Spark Plug spanned over 36 years. At age 90, Dave was proud of the fact he had been retired almost as long as he had worked. He mentored dozens of young engineers while at AC, many of whom stayed a part of Dave’s life after his retirement. Dave and Margie shared the love of fishing, spending 38 years fishing together on Lake Michigan, in Manistee. In the fishing community, Dave was fondly referred to as “Flakie Pierre,” a reference to the name of his boat and a nick name given to him by his fishing buddies on trips to Northern Ontario. “Flakie” was loved by all his special friends in Manistee. Dave and Margie were avid card players, sharing this passion with family and friends. Dave was a member of Davison United Methodist Church, serving on committees, writing poems for special events and active in United Methodist Men. Dave loved his community, loyally serving two terms on Davison City Council. Dave was also a member of Davison Odd Fellows. Dave and Margie supported their children and grandchildren in whatever activities they were involved. They faithfully attended their sporting events, music concerts, church programs and theater productions. Dave was known for giving the best hugs, gleefully anticipated by all who received them.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Robert Horton, Bill Horton, Mary Ann St. John; granddaughter, Amy Horton; daughter, Jean Domorsky; son-in-law, Wes Colling and many others. Dave leaves behind to cherish his memories, wife, Margie; children, Dianna (Brian) Johnson, Mark (Kathi) Horton, John Horton, Ellen (Jeff) Melick, Mary Horton-Colling; many nieces, nephews, cousins, special friends and those he adopted as family. “Papa” will be fondly remembered by his six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and several honorary grandchildren. Dave had a profound impact on the lives of all who knew him. He was one of a kind and will be sorely missed.

Visitation will take place at Davison United Methodist Church, January 31, 3-6 pm. Dave’s celebration of life will be February 1, 11:00 am, also at Davison United Methodist Church, visitation one hour prior to the service. The family respectfully requests all those attending the visitation and service to please wear a facemask (they will be available when entering church). In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Davison United Methodist Church, Manistee United Methodist Church or Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of Michigan.

Live streaming of services may be found at:    https://youtube.com/@davvisonumc