David Runkel

DAVID ALLEN RUNKEL

June 20, 1939 – March 8, 2026

David Allen Runkel, a man of integrity, a pillar of strength, a man who’s heart, had a never ending love, and support for his family, passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2026 finally reuniting with his wife Norma at the gates of heaven to start their eternal life together.

David was born June 20, 1939 to the late Leonard and Florence (Lovejoy) Runkel in Detroit, MI. He was a graduate of Bentley High School where he excelled on the football field and then later graduated with a degree in engineering from Lawrence Tech University.

On July 8, 1961 he married the love his life, his “Sweetie Pie” Norma Glowe. They were blessed with three children, daughter Christine (Bob) Eifler of Mancelona and her children Sarah Beck of Kingsley MI, Sasha (Stephen) Williams of Buckley MI and Dylan Rosenthal of Mancelona MI. Daughter Carolyn Monahan of Laurium MI and her children Tony Fulk of Cincinnati OH and Nevan Monahan of Laurium MI. His son and whom he considered to be his best friend, David (Catherine Schmuckal) who he called “Mama Bear” of Elk Rapids MI and their children Jacob (Brittney) Runkel and Jordan Runkel all of Grand Rapids MI. He was also overjoyed to welcome two great grandchildren into the family, Juna Rosenthal and Archer Runkel. He is also survived by many extended family members from afar.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, his soulmate and wife Norma “Sweetie Pie”, brothers Raymond and Eldon Runkel and sister Jeanne Lovejoy as well as many other extended family members.

David’s children will never forget the unconditional love and support they had from him while growing up, this in which he extended directly into his grandchildren and great grandchildren alike. He could not have been prouder of each and every one of them and made sure they were all loved and supported equally. You could always find he and Norma at any of their sporting events cheering from the sidelines with a smile and look of pride. He truly lived for his family and made sure everyone knew they mattered.

He was a man of few words but when he spoke, people listened. His never-ending sense of humor, shenanigans, quick wit or just the simple gift bow being placed on top of his head during the holidays will be missed and cherished forever. We love you dad and will carry you with us forever and always, until we meet again, enjoy rejoicing with our loved ones.

Private burial took place next to his wife, Norma at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens.

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