David Joe Shimek, 70, of Empire, Michigan passed away on Monday, September 29, 2025. Daivd was born, the first of four children, on November 11, 1954, in Traverse City, to the late Joe V. and Phyllis N. (Bratz) Shimek. He grew up on the family farm near Maple City, and he graduated from Glen Lake High School. After high school, he joined the U.S. Air Force and he saw the world. After retiring from the Air Force, David moved back to Leelanau County. David was preceded in death by his parents in 1998, his sister, Cindi in 2016, and his brother, Benny in 2025. He is survived by his brother and sister-in-law; Robert Shimek and Kristen Harriger-Shimek of Empire, Michigan. Where he lived for the last 10 years, in their care. He will be missed.

A burial service honoring David will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 10, 2025 at the Cleveland Township Cemetery. Military Honors will be conducted under the auspices of the U.S. Air Force and the Cherryland V.F.W. post 2780.

Memorial contributions in Dave’s name may be directed to Glen Lake Fire and Rescue, P.O. Box 417, Glen Arbor, Michigan 49636.

Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with David’s family at his tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff. com.

The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.