David Immonen

   David John Immonen, age 89, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025, surrounded by his immediate family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and spirited storytelling.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Patricia J. (Hilligan) Immonen; his children, Katherine A. Immonen and David L. Immonen; his daughter-in-law, Claire Vandervennet Immonen; and many cherished nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sons Michael and John C. Immonen, and his sister Mary Ann Haidinger.

   David was a proud grandfather to Evelyn D. Immonen (Rory Dahl), Audrey D. Immonen, Sebastian D. Immonen, Van R. Immonen, Julian D. Immonen, and Jane M. Immonen. Just weeks before his passing, he joyfully welcomed his first great- grandchild, Yvonne S. Immonen, daughter of Eve and Rory.

   Born in January 1936 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to John R. Immonen and Helen (Spielmaker) Immonen, David graduated from Muskegon Catholic Central High School. He earned a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame in 1958, served in the U.S. Army in Korea, and later completed his MBA at the University of Michigan in 1961. He went on to earn his CPA designation and began his career at Touche Ross in Detroit and Grand Rapids before acquiring and improving several businesses across Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.

   A lifelong Notre Dame enthusiast, David proudly wore his Fighting Irish hat and never missed a chance to talk about his alma mater. For over 25 years, he organized an annual football weekend at Paw Paw Lake, bringing together classmates, friends, and family in celebration and camaraderie.

David’s love for golf took him across the country and around the world. He and Pattie formed lasting friendships through the game, and he often recounted his eagle on the 10th hole at Oakmont—though he was even more eager to share stories of Pattie’s golfing achievements, of which he was immensely proud.

   He was a member of the 1953 Michigan state Class D championship basketball team at St. Joseph’s (later merged into Muskegon Catholic Central), where he set the Michigan record for the number of free throws made in a championship game (later tied by future NBA player Spencer Haywood). The team was inducted into the Muskegon County Sports Hall of Fame in 2022. As the only surviving member of the team he was asked to speak. He started his remarks by asking “What took you so long?” 

   His commitment to community and service was evident in his many roles: serving on the parish council at St. Michael’s Church in Greenville, PA; acting as treasurer for nine years at the Villages at Country Creek in Estero, FL; and volunteering with Junior Golf at Belvedere Golf Club in Charlevoix, Meals on Wheels, the Lions Club, and the Elks Clubs in both Greenville and Charlevoix. He also sang in the choir at St. Mary’s Church in Charlevoix, a fact he shared with a smile.

   Above all, David cherished his family. He delighted in gathering his grandchildren around the fire pit for s’mores, stories, and songs. Known affectionately as “Cha Cha” by the third generation, he had a special gift for soothing babies with his gentle rhythm and warm presence. He and Pattie were a joy to watch on the dance floor, their grace and connection evident to all.

   David will be remembered for his generosity, his leadership, and his endless trove of stories—some heartfelt, some humorous, all uniquely his. He leaves behind a family and community deeply grateful for his life and example.

A celebration of life is tentatively planned for Saturday September 5th in Charlevoix.

Please keep checking this web-site for further updates.

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.

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