David Markusse ’57

David Markusse ’57 of Kalamazoo, David Markusse, age 81 died on Friday, February 10, 2017.

He was born on November 10, 1935 in Kalamazoo, the son of Jacob and Lena (Marker) Markusse and grew up in the Milwood neighborhood where he formed many lifelong friendships and learned the value of hard work with his paper route.

David was a graduate of Kalamazoo Central High School, Kalamazoo College and University of Iowa where he received his Master’s Degree. Throughout his life David was active in the church and was a founding member of Pine Island Presbyterian Church.

On November 29, 1958 he married Dorothy Hiscock and they enjoyed 52 years of marriage until Dorothy’s death on June 3, 2011. David worked many years in local government in the cities of Kalamazoo, Iowa City IA, Mt Lebanon PA and Huron OH where he was the city manager for 5 years. He then returned to Kalamazoo and along with his friend Phil Perry, started West Michigan Appraisal.

David will be remembered as a great provider who loved his family, he had a dry wit and a good sense of humor. He enjoyed reading and had a hidden talent as a sketch artist. He was devoted to his wife during her illness. His grandchildren and his dogs brought him great joy.

David’s family includes his 3 daughters: Sue (Rob) Peterson of Weslaco, TX, Judy (Paul) Paget of Kalamazoo and Kathy (Greg) Portolese of South Bend, IN; 6 grandchildren: Jacob (Candice) and Matthew Peterson, Austin (Fiancee Katie) and Stephanie Portolese, Stacey (Rob) Richez, David Mann, 2 great-grandchildren: Aaron Richez and Caden Peterson, 1 sister Helen (Mike) Reynolds, a niece Mary (Lisa Howells) Reynolds and a nephew Mark (Lisa) Reynolds and grand-nephew Patrick Reynolds.

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