David Dwight Rushford

David Dwight Rushford, age 68, of Vassar, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at Brookdale nursing home in Bay City. Born on April 2, 1957, in Saginaw, to William and Grace (Peterson) Rushford, Dave was a man whose life was characterized by his love for the outdoors, his dedication to his craft, and his unwavering love to his family.

Growing up in Frankenmuth, Dave attended Frankenmuth High School, where he formed lifelong friendships and developed a strong work ethic. From the age of six, Dave was by his father's side, cutting firewood and learning the value of hard work. This early experience blossomed into a lifelong passion for working hard with his hands, particularly with woodcutting.

Dave's professional life was as rich and varied as the forests he loved. He delivered furniture for Oscar Raus Furniture in Frankenmuth and Ethan Allen Furniture in Saginaw, where his reliability and care for the items he delivered were well known. His skills as a furniture services repairman were unmatched, and his craftsmanship extended into the creation of beautiful wooden clocks, picture frames, and signs that many cherished as symbols of his talent and attention to detail.

The call of the outdoors was never far from his heart. His love for hunting led him to the Taxidermy Business, where he worked at Nancarrows Taxidermy and Bums Taxidermy. There, he became a master of deer horn mounts, combining his artistic eye with his deep respect for nature. Dave's family cabin in Lewiston was a haven, a place where he could immerse himself in the tranquility of the woods and indulge in one of his favorite pastimes of deer and bear hunting and fishing. Dave was a long-time member at St. Michael's Lutheran Church. He was a man of unwavering faith, who attended church every Sunday and his time to deepening his understanding of the Bible through his commitment to weekly bible class.

On May 8, 1982, Dave married the former Laura Bierlein at St. Michael's Lutheran Church in Richville. Their union was one of deep love and mutual respect, and together they moved to the Vassar community, which they both adored. Dave was a quiet, family man whose passions were his wife of 43 years, their two daughters, and his three granddaughters. He also found joy in camping with his family, living a life of quiet purpose and generous heart.

Dave is survived by his devoted wife, Laura Rushford, and their children, Sara (James) Boyd of Frankenmuth and Trisha (Andrew) Olson of Cass City. His legacy will continue through his granddaughters, Avery Boyd, Kennedy Boyd, and Frances Olson. He also leaves behind his siblings, Gary Rushford, Neal (Heather) Rushford, and Denise (Chris) Rezler, as well as many dear nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss his loving, and kind presence. Dave was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Dale and Mike Rushford, and sister-in-law Peggy Rushford.

David Dwight Rushford lived a life that was a testament to the values of love, family, and hard work. His memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of all who knew him.

A funeral service to celebrate Dave's life will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Michael's Lutheran Church, 3455 S Van Buren Rd, Richville, Michigan. Pastor Keith Knea and Pastor Wes Gillaspie will officiate, with burial to follow in St. Michaels Cemetery. Visitation will be at Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Home, 9940 Saginaw St, Reese, MI, on Thursday from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and at the church on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to St. Michael's Lutheran Church or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Alzheimer's Association.

All of us at Ware Smith Woolever are honored the Rushford family has entrusted us with the care of their loved one.