David Doby Obituary
Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on January 8, 2026, at the age of 73.
The son of the late Edmund Doby and Rose (Gamolka) Doby, Dave was born on October 6, 1952, in Detroit. He graduated from Stevenson High School in Livonia, Michigan, in 1970. He later earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Madonna University. Dave was an artist, but worked as a teacher and custom picture framer. He retired from work in 2016, but continued creating art until the end.
Dave was known for his kindness and sense of humor. He loved art (Picasso), music (Pink Floyd), and movies (Casablanca). Sharing those loves with family and friends was one of his great joys. His travel plans always included an art museum, a concert, or a seedy blues joint. Dave was committed to social and environmental justice and proudly supported organizations and candidates that fought for those causes. These beliefs were reflected in much of his artwork. He was fascinated by science and had an almost innate understanding of math, electronics, and computers. He loved and was well-loved by his family and friends.
Surviving Dave are his wife, Patty (Polzin); children, Michael (Kristen) Doby and Meg (Ethan Przekaza) Doby; step-children, Joe Szafranski and Bryan Szafranski; grandchildren, Ari, Elsa, and Evie Doby; brothers, Paul (Carol) Doby and Jamie (Sue) Doby; friend and former spouse, Cris Doby; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. He was predeceased by his parents and several pampered dogs.
A memorial service will take place at 4:00 p.m. Friday, January 16, 2026 at the W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 4480 Mackinaw Rd. Friends may visit with the family from 2:00 p.m. Friday until the time of the memorial service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation to the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center, the ACLU, or the Sierra Club. The family asks everyone to honor Dave’s last request by turning the music up.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4480 Mackinaw Rd. Saginaw Township, Saginaw, MI 48603
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