David Ray Doan

David R. “Dave” Doan, 74, of Benton Harbor, passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2020 at Spectrum Health Lakeland due to complications from surgery. Friends may visit with the family on Thursday, September 17, 2020 from 3 PM until 6 PM at Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, MI. Out of respect for the family and guests in attendance, masks and proper social distancing will be required. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Spectrum Health Lakeland Foundation – Memo: ATTN K9 Unit. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Dave was born in Benton Harbor to Delbert and Dorothy (Lamply) Doan on December 14, 1945. He graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1964, where he was an excellent athlete. He lettered in track, baseball and football. He was also a member of F.F.A. and Varsity Club. Dave married his high school sweetheart, Rebecca “Becky” Duncan, on August 10, 1968, they were happily married for 52 years. Law enforcement was near and dear to Dave’s heart. He worked for Benton Charter Township as an Ordinance Officer and Reserve Officer for 23 years until his retirement in 2012. In 2009, he was honored by his department as Police Officer of the Year. He had an uncanny ability to be in the right place at the right time. He was the eyes and ears of the Benton Charter Township Police Department. Dave was also a member of the Berrien County Sheriff's Posse for a number of years. Additionally, he was a government certified welder. After retirement, much of his spare time was spent sitting outside watching nature. He loved fishing and hunting with his dad. Dave loved animals, especially dogs; watching the antics of his beloved pet, Schnapps, brought him unending joy. Dave loved coaching rocket football. He proudly organized the event Punt, Pass and Kick and played football for the Michiana Hawks until an injury ended his football career. His quick wit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Dave is survived by his loving wife Becky; sisters, Nancy Sherwood of Stevensville and Linda (Manuel) Smith of Battle Creek; nephews, Mike Sherwood of St. Joseph, Scott (Shaya) Sherwood of Stevensville, Chad (Dawn)Smith of Battle Creek, and Mark (Virginia) Waldenmaier of Texas; nieces, Debbie (Jeff) Gerschoffer and Sheri (Karl) Coke of Texas, Heather (Chris) Vought of Battle Creek, and Cyndi Kaagan of Washington. He was preceded in death by his parents, Delbert & Dorothy; sister, JoAnn Waldenmaier; and brother-in-law, Don Sherwood. A very special thank you to Pastor Jay Haynes for all the prayers that uplifted the family when they needed them the most. He is a true man of God. Also, a thank you goes to all the staff in CCU, Hospice and Palliative Care at Spectrum Health Lakeland for the compassion you showed to Dave and his family.