David Rivard

David John Rivard, 81, of Escanaba, passed away surrounded by his family on Sunday, May 21, 2023.

Dave was born in Escanaba on October 13, 1941, to Clement and Esther (Gauthier) Rivard. He grew up in Escanaba with his sister and six brothers. He graduated from Escanaba High School, attended Bay College and served in the US Army including Foreign Service. Dave married the love of his life, Sharon Bryson, in 1963. They would have celebrated 60 years this August. He remembers having a crush on her as early as 2nd grade, but their relationship really blossomed while they were at St. Anne’s grade school where he played basketball, and she was a cheerleader. Up until the end, Dave said she was the best person he knew. Together they raised three strong daughters; Stephanie, Tina, and Kelly. He was a protective and supportive father, and a nurturing and spirited grandfather to Alexandria, Ashton, and Grayson. He enjoyed spending time talking and texting with his grandchildren, collecting coins, gardening, woodworking, taking care of his koi pond, collecting gadgets, tinkering on his iPad, chatting and fishing with his brothers, and traveling with his family.

Dave started as a meter reader for Michigan Consolidated Gas Company (now DTE). Through hard work and determination, he moved his way up to Officer Manager and Public Relations Officer for the entire Upper Peninsula over the course of 33 years.

Second only to his family, Dave dedicated his life to public service and the community. He has served the Delta County area for the last 50 plus years in many capacities. Dave was a Wells Township Trustee, and was elected as a Delta County Commissioner for 14 years. He was a formidable leader on the Commission, championing countless projects and initiatives that changed Delta County for the better, including a $400,000 Brownfield development grant from the EPA, $1.5 million to remove the old Escanaba River bridge and helped secure the $1 million funding for the new Chamber of Commerce and UP Veterans Museum.

He also served on many boards and commissions including Escanaba Public School Board, Bay Bank, UPCAP, UP State Fair and Chamber of Commerce. He was actively involved in Escanaba Noon Kiwanis.

Dave always had a vision of having small rustic cabins in Pioneer Trail Park along the Escanaba River. He was able to help secure funding from the Besse Foundation to build the original 10 cabins.

Surviving are his wife Sharon, daughters Stephanie (Thomas) Kidd, Tina (Matt) Jensen, Kelly (Scott) Coduti, grandchildren Alexandria Casperson, Ashton Kidd, and Grayson Kidd. Also surviving are his brothers Allan “Butch” (Marlene), Ralph (Judy), and Gerry (Sue), sister-in laws Barbara Larson and Debbie (John) Clairmont, along with numerous beloved nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents Esther and Clement Rivard, siblings Patricia Fuss Mary Theresa (infant), Clement (Leona), Jim (Yvonne), and Robert. He was also preceded by his in-laws Raymond and Lucille Bryson and brother in laws Frank Fuss and Richard (Peg) Bryson.

In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Toys for Tots or a charity of your choice.

Family would like to thank Fresenius Dialysis Center staff, Christian Park Village, Northwoods staff, UP Health ICU staff, Beacon House and UP Health System Home Care and Hospice.

Dave was an active member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church.

Family will receive friends on Tuesday, May 30, 2023 from 3 PM to 6 PM at Skradski Funeral Home in Escanaba. Military honors conducted by the Gladstone American Legion Post 71 will conclude visitation at 6 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at 10 AM at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Wells with Rev. Fr. Rick Courier officiating and Rev. Fr. Corey Litzner concelebrating. A luncheon will follow in the parish hall of St. Thomas Church located in Escanaba. The Rivard family is being assisted by the Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County.