David VanLuke

01/25/1941 - 08/27/2025

David "Dave" Orville Van Luke, 84, passed away on August 27, 2025, three of his children were by his side at the time of his passing.
Born on January 25, 1941, to Carl and Jean (Sovey) Van Luke, Dave grew up in the Galesburg/Augusta, Michigan area. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Carol Van Luke, and his son David M. Van Luke.
Dave spent his last several years in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, with his wife, Marion Van Luke. He is also survived by his sisters, Judy (John) VanRiper and Nancy (Earl) Lee; his children, Ronald Alger, Lee Anne (Eric) Olson, Holly (Tim) Delaronde, and Kyle Van Luke; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who were the light of his life. His grandchildren include Veronica Featherstone, David D Van Luke, Wesley Waldron, Blaine LaFountain, Ryan Alger, Nick LaFountain, Georgia Waldron, Alexys Ratcliff, and Kayden Van Luke and several great grandchildren. He also leaves behind nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.
In his younger years, Dave was passionate about racing. He was an NHRA Champion and well-known throughout the drag racing community. He worked as a barber and owned his own shop in Galesburg, Michigan, before spending his later career as an over-the-road truck driver.
Outside of work, Dave loved the outdoors and the thrill of riding. He was happiest on his snowmobiles and quads, spending countless hours at races and riding in the Upper Peninsula and at his cabin in Dublin, Michigan, where his children and grandchildren gathered and made cherished memories. Dave also had a lifelong love for animals, especially his cats and dogs.
Dave left his loved ones with countless stories and memories that will never be forgotten.
The family is planning a celebration of life on October 11th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Gun Plain Township Hall at 381 8th Street, Plainwell, MI. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the SPCA of Southwest Michigan, an organization close to Dave's heart.