David W. Petersen, 63, of Elkhart, passed away Monday, October 16, 2023, after a sudden illness. Dave was born on March 4, 1960 in Elkhart, to the late Robert "Bob" A. and Rosemary "Rosie" V. (Ryan) Petersen. In addition to his parents, a brother Douglas Alan Petersen and sister Mary Ann Petersen, preceded him in death.

Surviving are his children, Son Ryan Q. Petersen, daughter Kate (Brett) Gilbert and his grandson, Sage Gilbert whom he wholeheartedly adored. Also surviving is his  brother Michael (Margaret) Petersen, along with two nieces and a nephew, as well as his younger brother Steven Petersen.

Dave was working at Elkhart Products Corporation as a journeyman machinist and tool & die maker for over 40 years, as well as a proud IAMAW union member during his tenure

In his younger days, Dave was active in Boy Scouts and Explorers. He graduated from Elkhart Memorial High School, where he was on the wrestling team, and was a state tournament wrestler. His love of wrestling led to him training in boxing and Jiu Jitsu at Steve's Gym in his young adult years. Dave enjoyed many outdoor activities,  especially camping, hunting, and fishing with his friends and children. He was a passionate reader his whole life and was particularly fond of science fiction novels. He loved movies and enjoyed building and upgrading his home theater system over the years. Dave was an avid fan of jazz music and enjoyed going to the Elkhart Jazz Festival each year. When he traveled, he liked to find the local jazz and blues clubs to enjoy.

Visitation will be from 4-6 p.m. Thursday, November 2, at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St. Elkhart. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, November 3, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. with an hour of visitation prior at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church. 1405 N. Main St. Elkhart. Rev. Logan Parrish will officiate.  Burial of his cremated remains will follow at St. Vincent Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Dave's honor are kindly requested to: 'The Friends of Cass County Parks' (a 501c3) at, PO Box 131, Cassopolis, MI 49031 to support T.K. Lawless park, a property where Dave spent many days and nights with loved ones when it was privately owned.  On-line condolences may be made to Dave's family at www.billingsfuneralhome.com