David E. Birker

David E. Birker, 68, of Gnadenhutten, died Friday, December 19, 2025, at Aultman Hospital after a long hard fight with heart issues.

Born in Detroit, Michigan on November 29, 1957, Dave was the only child of Elson and Mary (Curtis). He grew up in Reed City, Michigan and graduated from Reed City High School in 1975. Following high school, Dave attended college for a short while, then moved on to completing the Ohio Peace Officer training. He then joined the U.S. Air Force, where he served his country for nearly four years. Following his time in the service, Dave found his way to Gnadenhutten, working as one of the towns policemen for two years before becoming the Chief of Police, a position he held for twenty-five years. Amongst those last ten years, he also served as the Village Administrator for Gnadenhutten. After retiring from those positions, Dave became a bus driver for Indian Valley, taking kids to and from school and many of the athletic events. In his spare time, he enjoyed mowing grass and helping at the former Gowins, now Koch Funeral Home in town. He also belonged to the Port Washington Lodge #202 of the F&AM.

Surviving is Dave's wife of twenty-one years, Carolyn (Armstrong) Birker, his children: Brent Birker of Byesville, Bryan (Amanda) Birker of North Canton, Brent (Anna) Cross of Tuscarawas, Tonya (Eric) Mangus and Rachelle (Tony) Lynch both of Gnadenhutten; grandchildren: Brayden Birker, Ava Birker, Mara Birker, Madison Mangus, Mckenna Mangus, Cassidy (Grant) Clum, Lauryn Lynch, and Braxton Lynch; great-grandchildren: Ronan, Auri, and one more on the way; and many more extended family, friends, and his beloved dog, Baby.

Along with his parents, Dave is preceded in death by his grandparents, who had a big role in raising him.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025, from 2:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. at Koch Funeral Home of Gnadenhutten, 244 N. Walnut St., 44629. A military service beginning at 5 will be performed by the Newcomerstown Veterans Honor Guard, followed immediately by a funeral service officiated by Pastor Jimmy Stull. Following Dave's wishes, he will be buried at Woodland Cemetery in Reed City, Michigan on a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Indian Valley Athletic Boosters, PO Box 664, Gnadenhutten, Ohio 44629, with hopes of providing a scholarship to student athletes.