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David Handley

February 11, 2017
Kalamazoo, MI

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David E. Handley, age 66, of Kalamazoo, MI died February 11, 2017. It is with a heavy heart that we regret to inform friends and community members that our dear husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend David Elmer Handley passed away Saturday afternoon, February 11, 2017 while vacationing in the Caribbean. David was born April 6, 1950 in Niles, MI the son of Elmer and Aileen (Wallquist) Handley. He was a member of the Buchanan High School's wrestling team which led to a college scholarship to Ohio University. He was a graduate of Western Michigan University and was the owner and operator of Handley's Tree Service for the past 42 years. He was an Eagle Scout and will be forever remembered as an avid outdoorsman. Hunting with his father and nephews in Wishart, Saskatchewan, Canada and in Rexton, Michigan in the Upper Peninsula was a rite of passage that became a family tradition that was never missed. One of his proudest moments was in November 2014 when four generations of Handley's attended deer camp. One of his favorite places in the world was in the driver's seat of his front end loader making perfect mountains of wood chips. His knowledge of hardwoods was phenomenal and was recognized as an expert in his field. Over the years he developed a unique collection of bartered keepsakes. A diehard fan of the Western Michigan Broncos and the Fighting Irish he enjoyed a variety of sporting events. As time passes, and this shock fades, his lessons, his memories, and his love will not. As we all face a future of daily unknowns, let us all remember that love and kindness is a choice. David was the embodiment of love, kindness, and generosity. He was a generous contributor to countless events, groups, and organizations. In 2016 he received the "Impact Award" from the city of Kalamazoo. On February 23, 2011 he was united in marriage to his loving wife Gerri, who survives. Also surviving are his parents, Elmer & Aileen Handley; his daughter, Jessica Handley; grandson, Dylan Doty; step-daughters, Niki Ray, Jillian Dougherty; brother, Terry (Barb) Handley; special nephew and his children, Todd (Stacy) Handley, Nathan, Jeremy, Abigail, and Emily; special niece, Melissa Adnson and her children, Grace, Liliana, Olivia, and Isabelle. Friends may meet the family from 2-6pm Sunday, February 19 and from 10-12:00pm Monday, February 20 at the Langeland family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 South 9th Street where a Memorial Service to celebrate David's life will be held at 12:00pm Monday. Private family interment will be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to the Western Michigan University Football Program or the Oshtemo Township Parks.