David J. Platz

David J. Platz

February 11, 1936 - September 24, 2025

David J. Platz, age 89, of Mishawaka, Indiana, passed away peacefully at home on September 24, 2025.

Born on February 11, 1936, in North Liberty, Indiana, David lived a full life marked by service, hard work, and deep devotion to his family. He proudly served with Company G of the 293rd Infantry Regiment in the Indiana National Guard, from which he was honorably discharged in March 1956. He continued his service as a U.S. Army Reservist, attaining the rank of Specialist Fourth Class (SP4), and was honorably discharged in April 1961. During his time in uniform, David was deployed to Germany, where he met the love of his life, Helga. They were married for 67 years and together built a strong and loving family that became the center of David's world.

David worked for many years with Dodge Manufacturing (1966-1996), where he was known for his dedication and strong work ethic. Beyond his career, he found joy in life's simple and meaningful pleasures. He especially loved being at Long Lake, where, for over 40 years, he and his family made countless memories and friends-fishing, swimming, boating, and simply sharing time together. He also enjoyed bowling, participating in the Dodge Athletic Club, and tending to his garden and lawn.

David was a man of quiet faith and lifelong commitment. He was a member of Saint Peter's Church for 62 years, faithfully attending and supporting the community he loved. He also gave generously of himself, donating an astounding 49.5 gallons of blood over his lifetime to help others in need.

A man who valued connection and experience, David loved traveling to Army reunions across the United States, taking Helga back to Germany, and visiting wherever his children and grandchildren were. Above all, he cherished the time spent surrounded by family.

Dave was the kind of man who would go out of his way to help others-especially his kids and their kids. He had a gift for mending rifts and would persistently show up wherever you were to help fix whatever was happening. In times of sadness, he would sit with you-not pressing for words, but lightening the moment by chatting about the weather, the garden, or some everyday thing until the heaviness felt easier to bear. He was an ever-constant part of our lives-someone you couldn't ignore, and someone you never wanted to. He was our ROCK.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Helga Platz; his children, Sylvia Platz, Monica Laux, and Michael Platz (Jackie); and his grandchildren: Sylvia Miller (Steven), Tyler Laux (Alexis), Garrett Laux, Chandler Laux, Derrick Platz, and Sara Shoulfer (John). Step-grandchild Jeff Underly (Katie).

David also leaves behind unofficially adopted grandchildren, Ty and Blake, who were best friends with Derrick and spent countless cherished hours with David.

His great-grandchildren include Bailey, Blake, Bentley, Sadie, Hazel, Grayson, Jedidiah, and Obadiah.

He is also lovingly remembered by his step-great-grandchildren: Abigail, Ellie, Owen, Tristan, Bryson, Shane, Ciarra, and Alex.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Lily-Rose (Faith) Cripe and David E. Platz; his siblings: Evelyn Runyan (Rube), Patricia Mitchell (Stan), Robert Platz, Joyce Eaglebarger (Chuck), Ruth Ryall (Marvin), Mary Ann Wilson, and Larry Platz; and by his beloved cat, Fudge, who adopted him first.

He is also survived by his younger brother, John Platz (Diana) of Florida.

David's legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the values he instilled in them. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025, at Saint Peter's Lutheran Church, located at 437 E Dragoon Trl, Mishawaka, IN 46544.

Visitation will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., service immediately to follow. Burial will take place at a later date, located in North Liberty.