David L. Thompson

David Leroy Thompson, age 88, of Onaway, passed away peacefully at Sheffield Bay Assisted Living in Bay City on Monday, November 10, 2025. He was the son of Fredrick Roy and Joyce (Wiltshire) Thompson Shoemaker. Dave was born in Muskegon on March 29, 1937. He married Nancy Chapman in April of 1965.
Dave was raised in Onaway where in his younger years he enjoyed working on his Grandpa Wiltshire's farm. He graduated from Onaway High School as a member of the class of 1955. Dave and Nancy later ran his stepfather's store, Shoemaker Grocery. His ties to the community remained strong throughout his life, and many people remember him as a bus driver for the Onaway Community Schools. In addition to his work as a bus driver, Dave built a lasting reputation as a barber in town. His first barbershop, Dave's Barber Shop, was located where the Doll House Beauty Shop now stands, but he later relocated his business to a new building he constructed next to the Post Office.
Dave enjoyed chopping wood with his John Deere tractor. He and his wife, Nancy, grew the most amazing garden, sold raspberries, and enjoyed canning season. They played Spitzer with family and friends, enjoyed summer picnics at Black Lake as well as swimming at the "Curve". Each Christmas, Dave and Nancy filled bags of candy and peanuts for church families and on the 4th of July participated in the festivities with a parade float. Dave was a proud supporter of the Onaway Courthouse Restoration.
Dave was deeply devoted to his Christian faith, which played a central role throughout his life. When he lived in Onaway, he was an active member of the First Baptist Church and the Onaway Assembly of God Church, where he served as the worship leader and Sunday school teacher.
In 1981, Dave moved to California, where he met his wife Audrey, and continued his career as a barber, this time serving the Marine Corps. After a decade in California, he and Audrey returned to Michigan and settled in Warren. There, he owned North Pointe Barbers, where he continued barbering until December 2020. After 60 years in the profession, Dave retired at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service in the communities he called home.
Dave had a deep affection for his hometown of Onaway and enjoyed spending time at Black Lake. He cherished every opportunity to be there and was always happy to see old friends and his former barbershop clients. Dave had a lifelong passion for sports, particularly college football and basketball. While his family supported the Michigan Wolverines, Dave's loyalty remained firmly with the Michigan State Spartans. This friendly rivalry brought a playful spirit to many family gatherings. Dave enjoyed playing croquet in the backyard and belonged to a square-dancing club in metro Detroit.
Dave's greatest passion was spending time with his family, especially during holidays and special occasions. He cherished these moments and found joy in having everyone together, particularly when sharing a meal was involved. As the master of the barbeque grill, Dave delighted in preparing steak dinners for his family. He was particular about the cuts of meat he selected, always choosing beautiful Porterhouse steaks to ensure a delicious meal. In addition to his grilling skills, Dave was renowned for preparing big breakfasts when his children and grandchildren visited. Many special memories were shared with Dave and Audrey in Warren.
Those who knew Dave will remember him for his hard work, generosity, and unwavering optimism. His fantastic sense of humor was characterized by his wit and a touch of sarcasm.
He is survived by his daughter, Charlotte (Benjamin) Shores; grandchildren, Angel (John) Pichla, Benjamin II (Mandy) Shores, Anna Shores, Evan Thompson, and Aaron (Emily) Thompson; as well as his great grandchildren, Brady, Gavin, Owen, Aria, and Adeline. He also leaves his former wife and the mother of his children, Nancy (Chapman) Thompson and her sons, Alan Greenwood, Richard Greenwood, Thomas (Colleen) Greenwood, and James (Ashley) Greenwood; several step grandchildren and great grandchildren and their families; and special friend, Florence.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Bill Shoemaker; wife, Audrey DiFranco Thompson; and daughter, Angela Thompson.
Visitation will be held at Chagnon Funeral Home on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 12 Noon until the time of the funeral service beginning at 2:30 PM. Pastor Alex Orta will officiate. Burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery in Onaway. In lieu of flowers, Dave's family has suggested donations in memory of Dave be directed toward the Onaway Historical Society or the Onaway VFW Post 5857.