David Zola Edwards

David Zola Edwards, age 84, passed away on April 9, 2026. He was born in Royal Oak, Michigan, to his loving parents, Zola and Louise Edwards. David was raised in Clawson, Michigan, where he attended and graduated from Clawson High School in 1959.  He later pursued his passion for engineering at General Motors Institute, earning his Masters degree and beginning what would become a long and dedicated career. David proudly worked for General Motors for 48 years before retiring, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, commitment, and craftsmanship. He met the love of his life and best friend, Julie on a blind date while attending GMI, and the two were united in marriage on March 16, 1963. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised two children, Susan and Steven.  David and Julie enjoyed vacations in Hawaii, road trips to Nashville, and bowled in various leagues for over 20 years.  David had a deep love for the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing and hunting all over the country, often returning home to share his adventures with family and friends. He and his longtime hunting companions created lasting traditions, preparing wild game dinners and sharing stories around the table. He also had a remarkable green thumb, taking great pride in his garden and stunning flower beds. One of his favorite traditions was attending Eastern Market’s Flower Day, and annual Frankenmuth trip with his daughter, creating cherished memories year after year. David also enjoyed spending time with his son, Steven. They had many heartfelt conversations, and shared stories and advice. His children and grandchildren, Josh and Tyler, fondly remember many annual hunting and fishing trips. David loved the holidays, especially Christmas, and took great joy in decorating his home.  He also had a unique hobby of collecting gnomes, a testament to his curious and creative nature. David was a proud Freemason and Shriner, and a member of the Cedar Lodge in Clarkston. In his later years, David found happiness in life’s simple pleasures— weekly visits to Menards with his grandsons, quiet afternoons fishing with longtime loyal friend David Sufczynski, and relaxing in his backyard, soaking up the sun while feeding the many birds and wildlife, he so loved to watch. He was also an avid Detroit Tigers fan and rarely missed a chance to enjoy a good baseball game with his grandsons. Special thanks to Josh and Tyler for becoming their Papa’s caretaker the last few years; seeing that he made it to his many Dialysis appointments, and lovingly making sure all of his needs were met. David loved to spend time with his granddaughters as well. Annual trips to the trout pond and blueberry picking were always fun. Allyson, Hannah and Tiffany loved spending time with their Papa every chance they could. All of the grandkids loved when their Papa would take them to the Shrine Circus. they got to go behind the scenes since Papa was a Shriner. But the fun didn't stop there, David loved his 5 great grandchildren to pieces. Bennett, Fiona, Sullivan, Hunter, and Zayn all loved spending time with their Great Papa. David is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Julie; his children, Susan Edwards and Steven (Amanda) Edwards; his grandchildren, Allyson Shaef (Austin), Jeffrey Kaltz, Hannah Edwards, Tiffany Edwards, Josh Edwards, and Tyler Edwards; his many great-grandchildren; his sister, Patricia Diane Bruneel (James); and many dear and loyal friends, including his work colleagues, many hunting and fishing buddies, and his loving canine companion Misty. He was preceded in death by his parents, and longtime friend and fellow Mason, Dennis Hovatter. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM at COATS FUNERAL HOME - WATERFORD. Family and friends may visit from 12:00 PM until the time of service. David will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shriner’s Hospital Children’s Burn Unit.

Special thanks to Diane and Jim Bruneel and David Sufczynski for making this service possible.

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