David C. Tafelsky, 65, ascended into heaven early Friday morning, February 27, 2026. He passed peacefully in his home, surrounded by his loving children and family.

He was born on March 5, 1960, in Traverse City, the son of Charles and Gloria (Shumsky) Tafelsky. David grew up in Traverse City, where he attended St. Francis High School and graduated in 1978.

After high school, David pursued a longstanding career as a maintenance technician, where he furthered his skills in trade school, specializing in various manufacturing technologies. Throughout his life, he worked for companies like United Technologies, Lear Corporation, and Leelanau Industries.

David lived a simple life that emulated the sacrifice of Jesus, putting others before himself and providing the best for his children. Education and a strong work ethic were fundamental principles he lived by and instilled deeply in his kids.

In 1992, David moved to Williamsburg with his former wife, Cynthia, and son, Tyler, where he lived the remainder of his life. Later in 2001, he welcomed his loving daughter, Sierra, into the world alongside his former spouse, Sue, and stepchildren, Melissa and Craig.

In addition to his supportive children, Sierra (Ryan) and Tyler (Elizabeth), David is survived by his siblings Timothy (Luan), Mark (Mary), Jeanne (Curtis), Robert (Mary Jo), and Thomas.

David fought his illness with strength and steady faith. Even on his hardest days, kept going with quiet courage and deep love for his family, always showing us what it means to never give up.

A Funeral Service honoring David will take place at 3:00 p.m., with visitation starting at 2:00 p.m., on Friday, March 13, 2026, at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 305 Sixth St., Traverse City, Michigan 49684. Rev. Michael Verschaeve will officiate.

Memorials can be directed to the family via Tyler Tafelsky, with proceeds going to the Chordoma Foundation.

Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with David's family at his tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .