David Michael Hafner

1951 - 2026

David Michael Hafner

July 19, 1951 - February 18, 2026

David Michael Hafner, 74, of Perrysburg, Ohio, passed peacefully on February 18, 2026. He was surrounded by his family. Born July 19, 1951, in Toledo, Ohio, to Frederick L. and Mary E. (Forrey) Hafner. David was dearly loved.

He met the love of his life, Rita, in 1970. They married in August of 1972, and were a doting and devoted couple for 53 years. In their first year of marriage, they tackled a renovation of a historic house in Perrysburg, Ohio. That house became the home where they started their family. Their son, Matt, was born there and as their family grew, they brought home daughter, Laura, and son, Paul, to their renovated second home, an 1836 gem. Through the years he built or renovated seven homes and two lake houses for his family. Of course, we can't forget his beloved companions, his dogs, Sophie and Ruby, that gave him so much joy. David was devoted to providing and protecting the family he loved so deeply.

His building career began in 1976 with Hafner & Son Remodeling, that was started shortly after the birth of his son. David was a self-taught master carpenter and was most interested in renovating historical homes. His expertise is evident in countless homes throughout Perrysburg, Ohio. He was featured in a trade magazine for "building them like they used to." He transformed his one-man endeavor into a highly regarded construction company, Hafner Crafted Homes. David was honest, well-respected and sought after for his talent and integrity as a fine builder in Northwest Ohio.

David had a lifelong passion for fishing. He owned many boats and collected a hoard of fishing equipment over the years. His other hobbies included playing guitar, oil painting, gardening, and becoming an avid collector of stereo equipment and record albums. His most recent hobby was target shooting which he enjoyed with his son, Matt. Each and every hobby was met with extensive learning, purchasing the very best and throwing his whole heart into it.

And then there was soccer......he became impassioned with the sport when all three kids started playing at early ages. He obtained many coaching licenses and coached youth soccer for many years. 'Coach Dave' was one of the founders of the Toledo Celtics Soccer Club; traveled throughout the U.S. and Europe with his kids to soccer events; and built the first indoor soccer facility in Northwest Ohio. His clear focus was always on the advancement of youth soccer.

He was a son, a brother, an uncle, a cousin and a friend, but above all else, a doting husband, father and grandfather. Known by many names – "Pa," "Poppa," "Uncle Bear," "Dirty David" and "Dancing Dave" – each was given to him for his spirit of life. Whether sharing stories, offering advice, or simply joking around, he made those around him feel valued and loved. Dave's legacy of love, strength, and generosity will live on in all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Rita; and his children, Matt and Laura (Matt); along with four grandchildren, Taylor Hafner, Juliet, Annabel and Mary Krisiewicz; and sister, Judy Monaghan. David was preceded in death by his dear son, Paul; and grandson, Andrew Krisiewicz; his biological father; parents Dave and Mary Smith; brother, Fred Hafner; and sister, Leslie Hafner.

Our heartfelt appreciation to the wonderful staff at StoryPoint of Waterville. We can't thank you enough for the love and exceptional care you gave to David. We would also like to thank Elara Caring Hospice for providing their excellent care over the past year.

Visitation for family and friends will be Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Witzler-Shank-Walker Funeral Home, 222 E. South Boundary St., Perrysburg, Ohio, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., at the funeral home, followed by the burial at Fort Meigs Cemetery. If desired, in lieu of flowers, please consider the Alzheimer's Association for any memorial contributions. Those wishing to share a memory or photo may do so by visiting www.walkerfuneralhomes.com.