David James Gensterblum, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida had his life on earth cut short on Monday evening, March 11, 2019, as a result of a sudden and unexpected heart failure. David was born on February 6, 1963 in Lansing, Michigan and even though he lived and worked in other parts of the country, Michigan was always home.

David, or “Big Dave”, as he was often called, was always full of life. He was an amazing, gregarious person who continually brought smiles, laughter and positivity to those around him. He lit up every room he walked into, captivating attention and stimulating laughter, great conversations and friendships. He made everyone feel welcome, alive and good about themselves, whether you just met him or knew him for a long time. David enriched so many lives by his own means and through the incredible network of friendships that could always be connected back to him. People always spoke about David’s “incredible heart and soul” that made them feel so welcome, comfortable and energized just being around him.

He was a prolific business leader, having been both an owner and CEO of a number of successful companies from start-ups to mature businesses. He loved being outdoors and being surrounded by family and friends. He was an avid boater, loved golf, fine wines, Michigan sports, biking and many of both the simple and finer things in life.

David was a devoted Catholic, his faith very important to him and this guided his generosity, view of life and people in such a positive and constructive way.

David was preceded in death by his father, Lawrence “Larry” Gensterblum, who also passed away too early in life. He is survived by his loving mother, Janet (nee Mulder) Gensterblum, two sisters, Pamela Mortensen and Carol Gensterblum, nephews Gerrit (Molly) Mortensen and Dane Mortensen (Alexis Pelkey) along with many aunts, uncles and cousins. David amassed a large extended family and close friends from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Knoxville, Tennessee, and Portland, Michigan.

Services will be held for David in both Fort Lauderdale and Michigan. The Fort Lauderdale service will be held on Saturday, March 23rd at 9:30am at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 901 NE 2nd Street, Fort Lauderdale Florida. The Michigan service will be held at the First Congregational Church, 421 E. Bridge Street in Portland, Michigan on April 27th at 1pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to American Heart Association (https://www.heart.org), Alzheimer’s Association (https://www.alz.org) and or St. Anthony Catholic Church in Fort Lauderdale (http://www.saintanthonyfl.com).

David is so very warmly loved as a son, brother, best friend, Big Dave, Tito and will forever be in our hearts.

Arrangements entrusted to Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care, Hollywood Boulevard Chapel.