David Gerlofs

05/17/1954 - 12/25/2025

David Roy Gerlofs, age 71, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, December 25, 2025, following natural causes.
David was born on May 17, 1954, in Kalamazoo, the son of Clayton and Margaret (Smith) Gerlofs. He was a proud graduate of Parchment High School, where he played saxophone in the school band, an early reflection of his appreciation for rhythm, sound, and self-expression.
On May 18, 1984, David married the love of his life, Roxie Jacobs, at the Kalamazoo County Courthouse. Together they built a life rooted in devotion to family, hard work, and shared experiences.
David dedicated thirty-five years of service to the State of Michigan, earning the respect of his colleagues through his reliability and strong work ethic. Following his retirement, he worked for Rowerdink Inc. in Kalamazoo for several years, simply to stay active and fill his time.
David truly loved the open road. Riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle was more than a hobby-it was a passion that brought him peace, freedom, and joy. He also enjoyed fishing, camping, working outdoors, watching motorsport racing of all kinds, and spending meaningful time with friends and family.
David is survived by his children, Dustin (Kelsey) Gerlofs and Lori (Matt) Drainer; his grandchildren, Peyton Way, Jaxson Nufer, Easton Ridgley, and Clayton Gerlofs; his great-grandchild, Braxton Laster; his siblings, Barb DeKam and Gwen (Lonnie) Gerlofs; and many nieces and nephews, including Kim (Robert) Hatfield, Mindy Davis, Rhoda Fessler, Sara (Dan) DeHaan, Angel (Christopher) Larsson, Katlyn (Anthony) Fessler, Josh (Kaitlyn) Hatfield, Corby (Veronica) Sherman, Areell Middleton, Emma DeHaan, and Dylan DeKam.
In accordance with David's wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home, followed by a time of sharing at 2:00 p.m. Friends and family are invited to continue celebrating David's life with food and spirits at Main Street Pub, 4514 W. Main Street, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49006, following the service.
Though his final ride has come to rest, David's spirit lives on in the open roads, shared stories, and the enduring love of his family.
While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign David's guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.
The Gerlofs family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002. 269-344-5600.