David Blake Steinbach of North Lake, Michigan, age 64, passed away on August 9, 2023 after a courageous battle with cancer. Dave was born on May 5, 1959 in Ann Arbor, Michigan to Ray and Alice (Bregger) Steinbach. He grew up in Chelsea, Michigan and graduated from Chelsea High School in 1977.
Dave attended Northern Michigan University and then joined the U.S. Navy, where he served as a Nuclear Reactor Operator on the U.S.S. Omaha based in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. On September 7, 1984, Dave married the love of his life, Shannon Springer, and while still serving in the Navy, son Sean and daughter Tracy were born. After leaving the Navy, Dave and Shannon returned to Michigan, and Dave started working at the University of Michigan, where he was employed at the College of Engineering supporting classroom technology for over 34 years.
Dave’s true passions were family, the outdoors, and University of Michigan sports. He loved anything to do with hunting, fishing, and conservation. Dave was a hunter safety instructor and an active member of the Chelsea Rod and Gun Club, where he served in a number of positions, including president. He also helped start and was an active instructor of the youth shooting group since 2002. Dave also served in many positions of leadership with the local, state, and national chapters of Ducks Unlimited, Inc., where his involvement and contributions will serve the organization for years to come.
Dave loved to entertain, host gatherings, and make others happy. From his famous wild game meals, to fund-raising dinners, to his annual North Lake Fireworks celebration, Dave’s gift was bringing people together. One of Dave’s favorite places to get away to was Murph’s Camp in the Upper Peninsula, where he spent the opening week of deer season for over 30 years. The camp was also the location for relaxing and enjoying time with family and friends throughout the year.
Dave is survived by his wife, Shannon (Springer); son, Sean Steinbach; daughter, Tracy Steinbach; brother, Vic (Shari) Steinbach; mother-in-law, Sallie Springer; sisters-in-law, Sherrie Springer and Shelly (Curt) Kessler; and many nieces and nephews who affectionately called Dave “Uncle Buck.”
Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Alice Steinbach, and father-in-law, Sheridan Springer. Dave’s life was enriched by all the friendships he made over the years and he will be dearly missed.
Visitation will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea, on Sunday, August 13, 2023 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. with a reception to follow at the Chelsea Rod & Gun Club, 7103 Lingane Rd., Chelsea.
Those wishing to make a contribution in Dave’s memory may do so to the Chelsea Rod & Gun Club or Western Washtenaw Ducks Unlimited.
