David Scott "Paco" Arent

David Scott Arent "Paco", born on January 5, 1958, in St. Joseph, MI. was called to his eternal home on February 10, 2026, after a valiant battle with cancer. He was the beloved son of Raymond Wellington Arent and Barbara Jean Schaus.

David's Celebration of Life Service will take place at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Starks Family Funeral Homes, Clark Chapel, Dowagiac. Paco would appreciate memorial contributions be made to his sons – Mason Arent and Vance Arent – to assist with their pursuits of higher learning education. Those wishing to leave an online condolence for the family may do so at www.clarkch.com.

David had an engaging and captivating personality that brought joy to the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His time on earth was marked by love, fun, spirit, heart, and soul. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by him. We ask that you remember him not for the way his life concluded, but for the way it was lived, joining in celebration of the profound impact David had on those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

He is survived by his two sons, Mason and Vance, and their mother, Suzanne, as well as his sister Sharyl and his brother Brent.

David was well traveled throughout his life, living, at times in his youth, in Libya, Africa and Bogotá, Colombia, where his mother and stepfather, Paul Foss, were schoolteachers. He was active in the Boy Scouts, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout with a Bronze Palm. David was a consummate craftsman. Whether it was building and siding homes when he owned Ace Siding and Home Improvement, finish carpentry and cabinet making, tool and die, or tying classic Atlantic Salmon Flies, his meticulous skill and spirit will continue to shine through the pieces that he created in his life.

Early in his life he worked in the restaurant industry, serving at the Seafood Emporium and becoming a well-known bartender at Timber's in St. Joseph, where his laughter and joy touched so many. He maintained a love for fine food and dining throughout his life, and enjoyed discussing wines and restaurants with his son, Mason. For years, he grew an exceedingly impressive garden and used that produce in his cooking, a passion that he has also passed onto Mason.

He was an avid fisherman, no matter the form. His sons, Mason and Vance, will carry many fond memories of the time they spent fishing with their father, particularly on the scenic Pere Marquette River in northern Michigan where they fly fished for King salmon.

David was also a Die-Hard Chicago Cubs fan who attended many games over the years with loved ones and family. Go Cubs!