David Wharton Furniss Sr., passed away peacefully on July 29th 2020, with his loving wife Alice (AJ) and daughter Jamie by his side. Dave was 80 years old.
Dave was born on October 19, 1939 in Grand Rapids, Michigan to Louis and Helen Furniss. Dave was a devoted Catholic. Dave was a cowboy from beginning to end. As a child, he and his family moved to Wikenberg, Arizona. There, they had a ranch with several horses. Dave spent his days tending to the ranch, practicing for the rodeo and riding horses, (his favorite Bucko). The ranch was Dave's piece of heaven on Earth.
Dave was educated at the New Mexico Military Institute in Roswell, New Mexico. He lived his life following the lessons, discipline and values he learned there. He cherished the friendships and bonds he made and held them close to his heart. After graduating, Dave moved back to Grand Rapids and sold insurance for a living.
Dave loved to sing. He had a love of country music, especially George Jones. His family will hold on to the memories of Dave singing along in the car, at home and even in public! Dave was also a comedian. He loved to put a smile on everyone's face and make everyone around him laugh. Dave's jokes, hilarious stories, goofy personality, his laugh and contagious smile are all traits his family will treasure the most.
Along Dave's life, he was faced with many serious health issues. With every devistating diagnosis, Dave would prove what an amazing fighter he was. He proved over and over again that he would not give up. He pulled thru and beat all odds every time. His courage, determination and strength were qualities his family will forever admire about him. He was recently diagnosed with double pneumonia, among other serious health problems. Once again, Dave proved how strong of a fighter he was. He fought as hard as he could, until his very last breath.
His memory will be kept alive thru his devoted, loving wife Alice (AJ) Furniss of 41 years, children Dave Jr Furniss, Debbie and Jack Cook, Doug and Dina Furniss, Shaun and Amanda Furniss and Jamie and Shawn Reed. As well as several grand children and great grand children.
Dave was preceded in death by his father, Louis C. Furniss, his mother Helen W. Furniss, his brothers Louis C. Furniss Jr., and Tommy Furniss.
A memorial and celebration of Dave's life will be held by Dave's family.
" God saw you getting tired and a cure was not to be. So He put his arms around you, and whispered "Come to Me". With tearful eyes we watched you, and saw you pass away. Although we loved you dearly, we could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest. God broke ours hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best"