David J. Gapinski, Jr.

David J. Gapinski, age 91, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, veteran, and lifelong worker, David lived a life defined by service, hard work, generosity, and quiet humor.

Born and raised in Gaylord Michigan, David graduated from St. Mary's High School in 1954 and proudly served his country in the United States Army as a Crew Chief on Chinook CH-47 helicopters. His military service reflected the discipline, responsibility, and teamwork that guided him throughout his life.

Following his service, David dedicated 38 years to the Otsego County Road Commission, where he was known for his reliability and commitment to his community. He also owned and operated Gapinski Excavating, a business that reflected his love of hard work, staying busy, and "playing with toys," as he liked to say.

David was a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. Outside of work, he found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved classic John Deere tractors-especially rebuilding them-fishing of any kind, polka music, speaking Polish every chance he got, and sharing a good joke. He never took himself too seriously and had a natural way of making people smile. The oldest of eight, David remained very close with his siblings throughout his life. He adored his grandchildren, was deeply proud of his children, and loved his wife with his whole heart.

David was preceded in death by his father, David Gapinski Sr.; his mother, Rose Skwiercz Gapinski; and his siblings, Al, Carl, Eddie, and Gertrude.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Frankie Gapinski, with whom he celebrated 65 years of marriage; his children, William Gapinski (Zaida), Tina Gapinski Reynolds, and Mark Gapinski (Shannon); his grandchildren, Justin Reynolds (Alexandrea), Jazmine Reynolds, Christian Gapinski (Kassie), Jordan Gapinski (Sara), Olivia Gapinski, Savanna Gapinski, Liam Gapinski, and Connor Gapinski; and his great-grandchild, Declan Gapinski.

David's life was one of purpose, loyalty, and love. He married his partner for life and spent 65 years by her side. His legacy lives on through his family, the work he was proud of, and the many lives he touched through his kindness and humor. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. And as David often said "See ya in the movies".

Visitation will take place from 4:00 to 7:00 PM Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service, where the rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM.

Visitation will continue at 9:00 AM Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at St. Mary Cathedral, where the Mass of Christian burial will begin at 10:00 AM.

Burial will take place at Resurrection Cemetery in the spring. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan - directed to the Patient Emergency Fund, 1169 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108.

Please share your memories and personal messages with the family on his guestbook below.