David P. Burnson

David Paul Burnson, age 84, of Kalamazoo, MI, passed away on October 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. A kind, humble and gracious man, David will be fondly remembered and missed by all who knew him. He was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan on April 11, 1941, the only son of the late Rudolph and Susanne (Vink) Burnson. He graduated from Colon High School, Class of 1959. On October 6, 1967, he married the love of his life, Mary (Ward) Burnson. They enjoyed 58 years of marriage and made a lifetime of memories. Making his home in Kalamazoo, Dave began working for General Telephone Company and moved on after more than thirty years of service. Never one to stay idle he began working as a subcontractor for other telecommunication companies. In his later years, he found joyful employment at Langeland Family Funeral Home where he helped care for families during visitations and services. Dave’s kind smile, compassionate nature and warm welcome made him perfect for this role, and he befriended many during his time there. When not working, he enjoyed fishing, taking drives to Shipshewana and playing golf. Dave was handy and mechanically inclined which meant he could build and fix nearly anything and was often called upon by family and friends to do so. Above all Dave loved his family! He was immensely proud of his son, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and his most valuable time was spent by their side. A love of the Lord and Christian character served as the foundation of Dave’s life; values he was proud to instill in his family. To know Dave was to love him. His smile, gentle words of encouragement and love for others made a lasting impact and he leaves behind the legacy of a life well lived. Dave is survived by his loving wife, Mary; son, Eric (Kimber) Burnson; grandchildren, Joshua (Emily) Burnson, Morgan (Andrew) Paeplow, Cameron Richardson, Keegan Richardson; great-grandchildren; Brentley Burnson, Lucas Paeplow, Wyatt and Kamdyn Richardson.