David James Persons

David James Persons, age 61, of Battle Creek died unexpectedly on Friday, May 5, 2017. He was born in Flint, Michigan on March 19, 1956, the loving son of Max W. and Janice C. (Kenewell) Persons. David attended school in Montrose, Michigan and graduated from Hill McCloy High School. David faithfully served his country as a member of the United States Air Force from 1974 to 1976. He spent many years in Daytona, Florida before settling in the Battle Creek Area.

David was preceded in death by his loving mother, Janice Persons, and his beloved grandparents, Cloyd "Shorty" and Virginia Persons. He is survived by his father, Max (Nancy) Persons; sister Kim (the late David) Vance; brothers, Kevin (Cindy) Persons, Kenton Persons, and Michael Persons; step-siblings, Joe (Nicole) Crimi, and Michele Crimi; six nieces & nephews, and five great-nieces & nephews. David was very close to nieces, Lindsay (Chad) Wathen and Niya (Dennis) Gross. David will be missed by all who knew him!

David was a member of the American Legion and the Battle Creek Masonic Lodge #12. He enjoyed fishing, riding motorcycles, tinkering and socializing. A very loving & compassionate man, David loved helping others in need and spending time with his family.

A graveside service with full military honors will be held 11:00 a.m., Thursday, May 11, 2017 at the Fort Custer National Cemetery, Augusta. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the Southwest Michigan Veterans Relief Fund, 228 N. 20th Street Battle Creek, MI 49037. A memorial gathering will also be held 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday, May 13, 2017 at the Montrose Masonic Lodge #428, 130 Parkway Street Montrose, MI 48457. Arrangements by Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Battle Creek. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.