David E. Aldridge passed away in his Frankfort home on May 10, 2007, his 65th birthday. He was surrounded by his beloved friends and family during the last days of his battle with cancer.
David was born in Traverse City, and raised in South Boardman, the son of Gordon D. and Gretchen E. (Neihardt) Aldridge. He graduated from Kalkaska High School with the Class of 1960. On August 1, 1962 he married the former Ethel Cross in Kalkaska.
He owned and operated Aldridge’s Standard Service in Kalkaska and worked as chief diesel mechanic at F and J Tractor in Kalkaska and Luedtke Engineering in Frankfort prior to opening Harbor Antiques in Frankfort. He then put his creative powers to work, masterfully restoring antique furniture.
David was an avid bird lover who delighted in rare sightings, and kept a birder’s life list and diary. His most recent passion was restoration of a 1932 Buick coupe, which gathered crowds and took high honors wherever it went.
David is remembered by his family and many friends in MI and FL as the guy who could repair anything and who would go out of his way to help anyone. He will be greatly missed.
David is survived by his wife, Ethel (Cross); sister, Nancy (Ed) Schneider; his children, Wendy (Charlie) McDaniel, Dan (Chris) Aldridge, Heather (Greg) Krawzoff; grandchildren and great grandchildren.
A private graveside service was held at the Boardman Township Cemetery with his son in law, Charlie McDaniel officiating.
Memorials in his memory may be directed to Munson Hospice and Palliative Care or the National Audubon Society.
Arrangements were made by Wolfe-O’Neill Funeral Home, our family serving yours.
- Record Eagle – 14 May 2007
