David R. VanEffen, age 54, of 7029 County 426 M.5 Road, Gladstone, MI died Friday evening March 23, 2007 following a brief illness with cancer at the Christian Park Health Care Center in Escanaba where he was patient for the past week.

David was born February 24, 1953 in Escanaba, son of Roy and Tillie (Srock) VanEffen. He was raised in Gladstone and attended the John F. Kennedy School in Escanaba. David worked at Lakestate Industries for many years until January of this year when he was re-diagnosed with cancer.
David was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Wells. He participated in the Special Olympics program for many years and he still enjoyed bowling with Special Olympics.
David loved being outdoors, riding his 3 wheeler and spending time with his family and friends. He always looked forward to the Pathways gatherings and baby sitting his brother’s dog Tripper.
In addition to his parents, Roy and Tillie VanEffen of Gladstone, survivors include;
brother Mick (Debbie) VanEffen of Gladstone and sister Gail Egner of Gladstone.

Nieces and nephews: Jared VanEffen, Shelly (Jesse) Norden, Jim (Melissa) Egner, Michele (Scott) Rausch, Jessica Egner and Melanie Egner. David also had 9 great nieces and nephews, and many aunts, uncles and cousins who loved him very much.

David was preceded in death by his grandparents; Mary Beaudoin, 1995, Frank VanEffen, 1938, William Srock, 1967 and Theresa Srock in 1982.

David’s family will receive friends on Tuesday from 3:00 to 5:00 P.M. at the Skradski-Boyce Funeral Home in Escanaba. Mass of Christian Burial services celebrating the life of David R. VanEffen will follow at 6:00 P.M. at the St. Anthony Church in Wells, Rev. Rick Courier officiating. Luncheon will follow in the Fr. Parrotta Parish Hall. Burial will be on Wednesday at the Gardens of Rest Cemetery in Wells.