Dave Stolpe Obituary
Dave's life was characterized by his devotion to his family, friends, and the Dowagiac community where he spent his adult life. Graduating from Dowagiac Union High School in 1988, he later went on to own and operate Dowagiac Auto Body.
Dave shared a beautiful life with his wife, Jennifer (Fairleigh) Stolpe for nearly 30 years. Together, they raised two remarkable daughters, Heather (Daniel Opra) Stolpe and Lynsie Stolpe, both of Dowagiac. His role as a father was the one he held dearest to his heart. He often reminded everyone that his greatest accomplishments in life were his daughters, who brought him joy and pride nearly every day.
An avid outdoorsman, Dave found peace at the water's edge, fishing rod in hand, often accompanied by an ice-cold Miller Lite. His love for restoration stretched beyond the vehicles he repaired at his shop; he was equally passionate about driving his own classic cars, proudly owning a 1957 Chevy Bel Air and a 1970 Monte Carlo.
Dave's workspace was a treasure trove of nostalgia, decorated with a collection that included old road signs, vintage gas station emblems, and antique license plates. If he had a true partner in crime, it was Diesel, his faithful dog, who was never far from his side, especially during their mutual escapades in those beloved classic cars.
Visitation for Dave will be on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 from 3:00pm to 4:00pm with a Memorial Service to be held at 4:00pm at the Apostolic Lighthouse Church of Dowagiac at 30402 M-62, Dowagiac, MI 49047.
Memorial contributions may be made to assist the family to Brown Funeral Home 521 E. Main Street, Niles, Michigan 49120, or online at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
Photos, condolences, and memories may be left for Dave's family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dave E. Stolpe, please visit our floral store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
Nancy Goodrich
May 17, 2024
When we needed body work done on our vehicles, my family found Dowagiac Auto Body was the place to take them. Because that seemed to happen fairly often over the years, Dave also became a friend. It's never pleasant when you need a car repair, but he was someone we depended on and trusted to do an excellent job at a reasonable price. He made the world a kinder place, and my sincere condolences go out to those close to him.
Deb McNamara
May 16, 2024
We send our deep sympathy Lynsie and Heather . Your dad was a special guy with a great sense of humor, sweet grin, and sparkly eyes he inherited from his grandpa Itchy . Even as a young child he showed his love of people as shown by this picture. May your days be filled with fond and happy memories . Aunt Deb and Uncle Dexter
Jamie Rodriguez
May 16, 2024
Jen, hearing this new leaves me a heavy heart for you and your family. We shared so many fun times with our girls growing up. I think of you often and pray you will find comfort during such a difficult time. I'm always here for you. Jamie Rodriguez
Kathy Willming
May 16, 2024
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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