David (Dave) James Rouech

David (Dave) James Rouech, age 75, of Canton, Ohio, passed away peacefully Thursday, October 19, 2023 surrounded by his family. This gentle, loving, caring and wonderful man has left a permanent mark etched on our hearts and will be missed by all who knew him.  Dave was born on November 20, 1947 to Jack and Faye (Brustmaker) Rouech in Saginaw, Michigan. The youngest of nine children, he was tormented daily by his siblings. He played in the fields and had countless neighbors as playmates. He often talked about helping his mom pick strawberries and going with his brothers to sell them at the market in Bay City.

Dave graduated from Arthur Hill Tech and soon began working as a heavy equipment operator. He retired in 2009 after working for almost 45 years. Dave was a great father who always took care of his children and did the best he could to teach and guide them. He was a loving Papa and was extremely proud of his grandkids. He treated his kids’ friends as his own. Despite his scowl, he had a great ability to make others smile with his sense of humor and quick wit.

Dave was a huge sports fan and was a diehard Detroit Tigers, Red Wings, Lions and University of Michigan football fan. Dave was an avid golfer and enjoyed most of his retirement at the golf course.  He loved music and could often be found tinkering in his garage while listening to anything from old country to classic rock. He loved to travel with his wife and even visited Australia. Dave was a member of the  F.O.E Aerie #2374 Louisville and the American Legion Post 548, where he was better known as “Michigan Dave” to his golf buddies.

Dave is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Penny (Balko), his two children, Kristie (Mike) Massey and DJ (Tasha) Rouech and his grandchildren, Peyton Massey, Cooper, Parker and Gibson Rouech.

He is also survived by his siblings, Pete (Nancy) Rouech and Iris Scharich, his siblings-in-law, Donna Rouech, Richard Davis, Nath Dixon, Duane Balko and Dale (Sharon) Balko. He will be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews, extended family and many good friends.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Joan Davis, Don (Helen) Rouech, Hank Rouech, Ted Rouech, Nancy (Norm) Stuck and Mike Rouech.

The family wishes to thank Traditions Health Care for taking such great care of him, especially Tina, Ashley and Megan. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Lung Association in his memory. Family and friends may pay their respects at Paquelet-Falk Funeral home on Thursday October 26th from 4:00pm to 7:00pm. A Celebration of Life will be held in Saginaw, Michigan at a later date. Condolences and special memories of Dave can be shared with his family online at

www.heritagecremationsociety.com