It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of David William Rice, a beloved father, brother, grandfather, and friend, who left us on February 14, 2026, at the age of 72. Born on August 24, 1953, in the vibrant city of Detroit, Michigan, David was a beacon of kindness and love, qualities that illuminated the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

David was the cherished son of William and Margaret Rice, who preceded him in death, along with his brothers, William and Denis, and his former wife, Julie. Despite the loss of these loved ones, David remained a pillar of strength and compassion for his surviving family: his devoted daughter Ariel Rice and her husband Nicolas Matus, along with their children Sofia and Emilio; his loving son Alec Rice; his brother Alan Rice and wife Beth, with their children Megan and Rebecca; his sister Linda Rice and her daughter Kristi Clifford; and Denis's children, Jessica, Samantha, and Will.

Growing up in Detroit, David graduated from Henry Ford High School, where he laid the foundation for a life filled with adventure and enterprise. He embarked on a career working in the warehouse at Floms, a starting point that led him to join forces with his brother Al in various business ventures. Together, they sold everything from firewood and Christmas trees to material handling equipment, collaborating until David's retirement in 2015.

David's personal life was rich and fulfilling. In 1989, he married Julie, the love of his life, after a serendipitous meeting during a job interview. Their union blessed them with two cherished children, Ariel and Alec, and an abundance of joyful memories. Even after Julie's passing, David continued to honor her memory by supporting their children and sharing in their journeys.

In retirement, David found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid lover of garage sales, cherishing the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life. His love for playing pool provided camaraderie and laughter with friends. His compassion extended to the four-legged friends he adored, from his warehouse-found puppy Quantis to his beloved Snowball and Tasha.

David's blue eyes sparkled with kindness, and his laughter was infectious, lighting up any room he entered. He wore his heart on his sleeve, always placing the needs of others before his own and steering clear of conflict with a gentle spirit. He would spend his last dollar to bring a smile to someone's face, and his love for movies, music, and food, especially a good steak, cannoli, and German chocolate cake, was a testament to his zest for life.

He was a sensitive soul, deeply empathetic, and his love for Bob Seger and Eddie Money's "Two Tickets to Paradise" was as unwavering as his dedication to his family. David's legacy is one of love, generosity, and an unwavering belief in the good of others.

A celebration of David's life will be held on March 3, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Holy Sepulchre, 25800 W 10 Mile Rd, Southfield, MI 48033. Family and friends are invited to come together to honor a life that was truly well-lived. Following the funeral, we will be celebrating his life by taking part in one of David's favorite passtimes playing games with the people he loves. Join us at Dave & Buster's Livonia, located at 19375 Victor Pkwy, Livonia, MI 48152, to honor David with love, games, and German chocolate cake.

The family extends their deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and support and encourages those whose lives were touched by David to carry forward his legacy of love, music, and the joy of a shared German chocolate cake. David William Rice will be dearly missed, but his spirit will forever reside in the hearts of those he loved and who loved him in return.

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