David Brian Panwas

April 16, 1955-November 26, 2025

David Brian Panwas was born April 16,1955 to Edwin and Marjorie Panwas of Dewitt Township, MI. He passed away peacefully surrounded by family at his home in Lake, MI on November 26, 2025, at the age of 70. David fought a courageous battle with Cancer for the past year. If it were up to him, he would still be fighting to be here for his family.

David is survived by his loving wife-his cherished "Baby Doll" Mary-Lynn Panwas. He was a loving and devoted father of his children: Jason Babbitt, Lindsey Simpson, Joseph (Lexi) Panwas, Kaylee (Codey) Cotton. His role as "Bumpa" to his grandchildren Justyce, Austin, Jude, Abrie and Barrett brought him so much joy! He cherished every moment spent with them, they were the light of his life and brightened his days in every way.

David is also survived by his siblings, Ed (Nita) Panwas and Mary Baker, along with his lifelong childhood friend Bobby Stevens and close friends Howard Medlock and Red Aagard. He treasured the time spent at his home up north, where he created countless memories with his dear Lakehouse Friends, who became more like family.

He is further survived by his brothers-in-law, Mark Irish, Craig Irish, and Chris Irish and his sister-in-law Laurie Irish, with whom he shared a close and cherished bond with. He and Laurie were the self-proclaimed family "Out-Laws". The love and support throughout his life did not go unnoticed from the entire Irish family. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Chris for his proactive care and for the invaluable knowledge and support he provided throughout David's illness, and to his special nieces and nephews-Dena (James) Panwas-Badore, Meagan (Joe) Ackerman, Christopher (Stacy) Irish, and Jeffrey (Becca) Irish, whose unwavering attentiveness and compassion were a profound comfort to their Uncle David.

David had a lifelong career as a Heavy Repair Diesel Mechanic. He was known for his remarkable work ethic. He spent 28 years at Builder's Redi-Mix where he formed deep and lasting friendships with many co-workers, several of whom visited him just weeks before his passing. David then went on to work for Schlegel Sand and Gravel for nine years where his knowledge and skill brought a level of expertise to everyone who worked alongside him. Retirement never suited David, he simply could not sit still! He went on to work for Olger Brothers Sand and Gravel where he worked alongside his friends and co-workers Wes, Luke, Curtis, Jake, and Zack. In June of 2022, after much convincing, David retired to a life of cruising around the lake in his pontoon, cold beer in hand. But, of course, in true David fashion, always making himself readily available to the guys in the shop when they needed guidance, support or the kind of experience only he could offer.

David embodied the true meaning of a genuine man. To know him was to love him. You could always count on him; he was always ready and willing to lend a helping hand in any situation, to any person and this is one of the many reasons Mary-Lynn was proud to call him her Husband. David was a man of his word, with a kind, gentle heart and his unmistakable "cheese-eating grin", he was a steadfast lover of his wife, family and friends and of course his peanut butter sandwiches, popcorn and his not so hidden stash of chocolate.

David always showed up for all his children and grandchildren. You could find him on the sidelines in his work pants, boots, pocket t-shirt, or crew neck sweatshirt and Carhartt vest, and of course his trusted CAT hat. He was very proud of the fact that the standout athletes were his own. He was also good for a quick pep talk at water breaks. His pride and love for his children and grandchildren was unmeasurable. He celebrated every milestone in life alongside them from graduations, marriages, homeownership, career changes to even holding the title of Proud Marine Dad. The success of his children and grandchildren is a direct representation of their upbringing and the love and support he and Mary-Lynn provided.

As the family that he created grew, he held many roles: mechanic, electrician, contractor, therapist and many more. Together with Mary-Lynn, he created a life full of love and happiness, making countless memories, many of which were at their "Little Slice of Heaven", a rustic hunting cabin on 40 acres. His presence will be felt there for years to come, especially in the colder months as he was the best at keeping the fire going both inside and outside and this was appreciated by all. David had great comfort in knowing that the new owners would continue to make memories at “Deer Camp” with their family.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Marjorie Panwas, his father and mother-in-law Don and Kay Irish, his granddaughter Andreah Mitchell, his son Jason Babbitt, his niece Amanda Irish-Cunningham, his sister Sherry Pagnani, brother-in-law Tony Pagnani, brother Craig Panwas and his sister-in-law Larene Panwas.

David is now the angel in heaven as he was on earth, he will truly be missed.

In accordance with David's wishes, there will be no formal services held. The family will host a Celebration of Life in his memory to be planned for the summer of 2026. 

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