VASSAR – Mr. David Garrett Nearing, age 71, our smart, kind, independent, and proud father, grandfather, brother, and friend passed away on February 5, 2026, at his home.

David was born in Caro, Michigan, on August 2, 1954, to Virgil & Ruth Nearing (née Farnham). He enjoyed growing up on the family farm where he learned many valuable lessons and skills, such as gardening and a love for the outdoors. He was raised alongside his siblings, Sue and Virgil II and in his youth was a member of Vassar First United Methodist Church where he was also a Sunday school teacher. He graduated from Vassar High School with the Class of 1973. In his working years, he was a foreman for a manufacturing company. David was an avid fan of chess, and he played often and read many books on the subject. Further, he enjoyed reading histories of WWII and keeping up with current events. One would often find David cheering on the Detroit Lions and watching a good game of football. In his spare time, he liked to grow things and watch the birds visit the feeders. Above all, David’s greatest joy was the time that he spent with his family. He will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his children: Kristopher Nearing, Corby (Mark) Reif, and Candice (Andy) Erdman; grandchildren: William Reif, Henrik Reif, Jack Reif, Amelia Erdman, and Weston Erdman; sister, Sue Nearing; brother, Virgil Nearing II; as well as many friends.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Virgil and Ruth Nearing.

Funeral services for David will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Hanlin Funeral Home in Vassar; visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. and last until the time of service. Pastor Dennis Irish will preside. Afterwards, David will be laid to rest in Brookside Cemetery, Fairgrove, Michigan, alongside his parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the family discretionary fund.

Kindly share a memory with David's family in the guestbook below.

David and his family are in the care of Hanlin Funeral Home - Vassar. Address: 1148 W. Saginaw Rd, Vassar, MI 48768. Phone (989) 823-8621.

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