David Russell Volkman Sr's Obituary
David Russell Volkman Sr. of China Township passed away on June 8, 2026, at the age of 82. He was born in St. Clair, Michigan, on May 12, 1944, to the late John and Lucille Volkman. David graduated from Marine City High School in 1962 and went on to attend Macomb Community College, where he earned his associate degree through a General Motors apprenticeship program to become a wood model maker. He began his career with General Motors in 1967 and retired in December 2005 from the Warren Technical Center. During that time, he also proudly served for six years in the United States Army Reserves.
Born and raised on his family's farm, David was a lifelong farmer. As the youngest of five brothers, he spent his childhood helping on the farm, assisting his mother in the kitchen, and peeling more than his fair share of potatoes. Farming was a passion that remained with him throughout his life, and he continued working the land until last year. Over the years, he raised crops, dairy cattle, beef cattle, and pigs. He also took great pride in his quarter-acre vegetable garden and made sure to grow mooregold squash and pumpkins each fall for his grandchildren. He especially loved when they helped him harvest the potatoes.
David was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who never missed a sporting event or performance involving one of his grandchildren. He was also an avid Detroit Tigers fan and enjoyed listening to or watching them whenever he could. A gifted finish carpenter, David was a true craftsman and a wizard with wood. From building cribs and rocking chairs to countless other projects in his woodshop, he took pride in creating things with his hands. Above all else, David cherished his grandchildren and always made sure his freezer was stocked with ice cream for their visits.
David is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Pamela; his children, Vicki (Tom) Fowler, David Jr. (Kelly) Volkman, and Suzanne (Brian) Ross; his grandchildren, Logan (Tyler), Lydia, Isabella, Olivia, Noah, Eli, Brent, Tucker, and Clara; his sisters-in-law, LouAnn Volkman and Kathy Volkman; special brother in law Ron (Kim) Belhorn his special nephew, Kenny Volkman; and many loving nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Lucille Volkman; his brothers, Jack, Don (Peggy), Charlie, and Ken Volkman; and his nephews, Kevin and Tom.
A visitation will be held on Friday, June 12, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Young Colonial Chapel Funeral Home, 4061 St. Clair Highway, East China. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 13, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, with visitation beginning at the church at 10:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in David’s name to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church or Marine City High School Athletics and Fine Arts Program are appreciated.
To leave a message of comfort with the family, please visit https://YoungColonial.com
What’s your fondest memory of David?
What’s a lesson you learned from David?
Share a story where David's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with David you’ll never forget.
How did David make you smile?
