David Cokonougher Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes - Perry Chapel on Oct. 4, 2024.
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Pastor David E. "Papa" Cokonougher, aged 63, of Haslett, Michigan, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on October 2, 2024. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, October 18, 2024 at House of Prayer, 9974 Old M-78, Haslett, MI 48840. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:30 AM until the time of service.
He was born on January 22, 1961, to Harley Elwood and Mary Lois (Willert) Cokonougher. David was born in Mason, Michigan, he graduated from high school in Holt which laid the foundations for a life full of love, service, and devotion.
On December 8, 1979, he married Holly L. Mead in Lyons, Michigan. Their union was blessed with five wonderful children: Laura Cokonougher, David Elwood (Ashley) Cokonougher, II, Daniel (Danielle) Cokonougher, Amanda (Johnathan) Lupu, and Caleb (Sarah) Cokonougher. He was adorned with the title "Papa" as a cherished grandfather to; Caitlin Cokonougher, Isabelle Cokonougher, Sophia Cokonougher, Lily Cokonougher, Summer Cokonougher, Makayla (Jacob) DeJarlais, Lacy Cokonougher, Daniel Cokonougher, Harley Cokonougher, Annie Lupu, Alana Lupu, Ashlynn Lupu, Johnathan Lupu, Allison Cokonougher, Gabriel Cokonougher.
David's siblings, Becky (Ron) Taylor, Sandy (Doug) Johnson, Sherri (Allan) Stump, and Dian (Jeff) Berquist, remember him fondly, as do many nieces and nephews. His life was marked by the loss of his parents, his sister Sara Uhl, and his niece Becky Sue Mead, who preceded him in death.
Pastor David followed in his parents' footsteps, who founded the House of Prayer in the early 1960s. With more than three decades as the shepherd of the church, he nurtured not only his own family but also his church family, raising them in faith and community. His dedication to spreading the word of the Lord Jesus Christ was evident in his passion for singing with various groups, a joy that he shared with everyone he met.
David's early years spent helping on his grandparents' farm instilled in him a love for John Deere tractors and barns, a passion he carried throughout his life. He was a man of many interests, but above all, he was devoted to his family. As a loving husband, a caring father, and a doting grandfather, David's life was a testament to the power of faith, love, and optimism.
Those who knew Pastor David would describe him as a loving and faith-filled man, whose hope for others shone brightly even in the face of life's challenges. He was a guiding light to many, offering words of wisdom, comfort, and encouragement. His legacy of love and faith will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
As we celebrate the life of Pastor David E. "Papa" Cokonougher, we are reminded of the impact one person can have on the world through a life lived with purpose and grace. His memory will be cherished and kept alive through the stories shared by his family and the many lives he touched. Pastor David's journey on earth may have ended, but his spirit continues to guide and inspire us all.
Memorials are suggested to the House of Prayer Christian School, 9974 Old M-78, Haslett, MI 48840.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.watkinsfuneralhomes.com.
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