David Merle Wojta

The family, friends, and loving community surrounding David Merle Wojta are sad to announce the news of his peaceful passing on August 30th, 2024. A proud father of four, David is survived by two sons, Charles (Shari) and Andrew (Shauna), two daughters: Rachael and Lily, as well as numerous grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings: Gail Thompson, George "Sonny" Rosinski, and Patricia "Patty" Kammerer, as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

Serendipitously born on December 7th, 1945 - the four-year anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor - in South Bend, Indiana, a profound love of country, sense of duty, and passion for service are the pillars on which David's extraordinary life was built. His four years in the Marines took him to Afghanistan and Israel, followed by eight years in the Army National Guard. A position in the Army Reserve at Selfridge Air National Guard Base gave him the opportunity to serve as Crew Chief overseeing work on Huey Helicopters before his military retirement in 2005 at the rank of Sergeant First Class. He then went on to devote 18 years of service to the United States Border Patrol, retiring as the Fleet Supervisor for the Detroit Sector in 2015.

Following his military service, David remained active in bringing people together with his volunteer work for causes he believed in including Young Marines, the Marine Corps League, Toys for Tots, and more. He enjoyed golfing on the weekends, being on the water, working on cars, and spending as much time with his family and friends as he could.

David will be remembered for his selflessness and service, infectious sense of humor, love of folk and bluegrass music, a fantastic biscuits and gravy recipe, and unique ability to put others at ease no matter from which walk of life they came. He was a true example of an uncompromising father, brother, husband, and friend; an American and everyday hero who brightly shone bravery and calm into his final moments.

Those wishing to celebrate David's memory are invited to join his family for short service with brunch to follow on Saturday, September 21st at 11:00 am at The Fred M. Alger Center at The War Memorial located at 32 Lake Shore Drive Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236. In lieu of flowers or gifts, David's family is requesting that those who would like to generously make a contribution in his memory do so to the Memorial Fund of the Karmanos Cancer Institute, Lung Cancer Research, Attn: Hirva Mamdani. Karmanos Cancer Institute provided David with exceptional care, education, and guidance during his experience with cancer and his legacy will directly aid in the research to further advance treatment and one day cure lung cancer.

https://www.karmanos.org/karmanos-foundation/tribute-gifts-karmanos-foundation