David L. “Papa Dave” Cockrell, 74, of Union City passed away peacefully at his home Monday, June 22, 2026 under hospice care.
In keeping with David’s wishes, he will be cremated and a memorial gathering will be held Monday, June 29, 2026 from 1:00-2:00 p.m. at Lighthouse Funeral & Cremation of Union City, 1276 Tate Trail, Union City, and second gathering from 5:00-6:00 p.m., later that same evening, also at Lighthouse in Union City.
David was born June 14, 1952 to the late Donald and Nina (Spaulding) Cockrell in Coldwater, Michigan. He graduated from Coldwater High School with the Class of 1971.
He worked at Fayette Tubular in Reading for 30 years.
David enjoyed spending his time on the golf course and fishing. But his greatest joy came from spending time with his children, Jessica Cockrell and Dustiny (Eric) Flanders; his grandchildren, Brice (Kristina) Farris, Skyler (Megan) Flanders, Blane Flanders, Jamison Watson, and Devin Dosier; and his great- grandchildren, Everly, Scout, Adeline, and Kasey.
David touched many lives and will be remembered for his kind heart, quick wit, and his willingness to always lend a helping hand.
In addition to his family listed above, David is survived by his brother, Daniel Cockrell; his nephews, Mark Malitz and Jeremy Cockrell; his great nephew and niece, Chase and Cameron Cockrell. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Donna Malitz.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be directed to Centrica Care Navigators (Hospice), 7100 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49009 or online at https://secure.qgiv.com/for/centricacarenavigators.
Please visit www.lighthousefuneral.com to share memories, pictures, and videos with the family.
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