Gordon Ballantyne, Jr. (April 24, 1938 - October 22, 2020)

In loving memory of
Gordon Ballantyne, Jr.
  • April 24, 1938
  • -
  • October 22, 2020

  • Obituary

Obituary

David Ballantyne Jr., most recently of New Port Richey, Florida, passed in peace on October 22, 2020 surrounded by the love of his family. Mr. Ballantyne was born on April 24, 1938 in Saginaw, Michigan to Gordon David Sr. and Olga Ballantyne. He is survived by his children, Karen (David) Foster, Michael Ballantyne and Kristen Ballantyne, his grandchildren Kayla (Matt) Edwards, Kole Newberry and Lily Schrader, and great- grandchildren Grace and Thatcher Edwards.   He is also survived by his sister Beth (Donn) Cramton and her family.  His parents and sister, Marilyn, predeceased him.  Dave’s close, loving family also includes many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Dave grew up in Saginaw, Michigan and went on to study Education Psychology at Western Michigan University while enjoying the TKE fraternity life.  After earning his degree, he taught and went on to be employed by Oldsmobile.  In the early 1970’s, he moved with his family to Gaylord where he opened the only Sears Store in Northern Michigan.  He grew that business and eventually purchased and renovated the old fire station.  He was beloved by his customers and staff and greeted everyone with a smile and a joke.  Dave was an avid golfer who came up with some interesting ways to straighten out his drive such as applying vaseline to the club head or bouncing into the ball off the tee.  The sighting of the only Red and White Chevy El Camino in town signaled Dave was enjoying time with his many friends.

As you visit Talley’s for a burger, or eat that extra bit of bacon, or indulge in anything chocolate, or start the charcoal on the grill, or send that email joke, please think of Dave. You will hear his laughter in the northern wind.  Dave will be remembered for his big heart and most especially his sense of humor.

Family and friends plan to gather for a 5th on the 4th & 4th on the 5th this summer to raise a beer and toast Dave to celebrate his life.  He will forever be missed by all.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Great Lakes Golden Retriever Rescue; P.O. Box 1455; Grand Rapids, MI 49501. GreatLakesGoldens.org

 

 

 

 


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