David John Regelin, 76, a lifelong resident of Monroe, Michigan, passed away at home on Tuesday, September 9, 2025. A devoted family man, he enjoyed the simple things in life and always had a joke or story to tell.
Born October 14, 1948, in Monroe, Dave was the son of the late Edmund O. and Helen M. (Pipis) Regelin. He graduated from Jefferson High School in 1966, where he played football. Dave went on to attend Monroe County Community College, Lansing Community College and Henry Ford Community College becoming a Journeyman Electrician.
On August 22, 1970, Dave married his high school sweetheart, the former Linda L. Sodt, at St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Monroe.
Dave worked for Ford Motor Company as an electrician at the Monroe Plant for 38 years, from which he retired after he literally turned off the lights as the plant closed. Prior to Ford Motor Company, he worked as an upholsterer for La-Z-Boy Chair Company.
Dave was a member of St. Paul's United Methodist Church, but he and Linda were also involved in starting Frenchtown United Methodist Church in Frenchtown Twp, where he served as treasurer. He was also a member of the Moose Lodge #884, Monroe Jaycees, and Big Brother Big Sisters in Monroe, where he was awarded 'Big Brother of the Year'. More than anything he enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who lovingly called him "Granddad". He loved taking them fishing, playing board games with them at home, or simply hearing what they had to say (they always gave him a good laugh).
Dave is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Linda, three loving daughters: Jennifer M. (Jeffrey) West of Monroe, Amanda S. (Andrew) Osborne of Howell, and Amy R. (Wayne) Bitto of Holland, OH, eight cherished grandchildren: Dakota, Logan, Nolan, and Grant West, Addison, Andrew, and Abigail Osborne, and Oliver Bitto, and one brother, Mark (Marcia) Regelin of Monroe.
In addition to his parents, Dave was preceded in death by a brother, Richard, and a sister, Jeanann.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Paula's Angels / Paula's House, Monroe Relay for Life, or St. Paul's United Methodist Church.
In keeping with Dave's wishes cremation has been held. On Saturday, December 27, 2025, a memorial gathering will be held at St. Paul's United Methodist Church beginning at 10:00 am followed by a memorial service, celebrating Dave's life at 11:00 am. Rev. Rey Mondragon, pastor of the church will officiate. Private interment services will be held at Roselawn Memorial Park.
Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd., Monroe, Michigan, 48161 is assisting Dave's family with funeral arrangements.
Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page at www.bacarellafuneralhome.com .