David Tyler DeForest, age 72 of Manistee, passed away on Friday December 20, 2024, in the comfort of his home.

Born December 11, 1952, in Muskegon, Michigan, David was the son of the late Floyd and Betty (Tyler) DeForest. After graduating from Muskegon High School, David went on to attend Baker College in Muskegon where he received his degree in criminal justice. On August 30, 1991, he married Mary Hilton in Cadillac, Michigan, and they shared 33 years together.

David started his working career with the Cadillac Police Department in 1979 and in 1988 was promoted to Sergeant. In 1993 and 1994, he was with the Traverse City Narcotics Team as an undercover narcotics officer. In 1996 he ran a Domestic Violence Program for the Wexford and Missaukee Counties. 2001 was when David was promoted to Detective Lieutenant and stayed in that position until his retirement in 2006. During that time, he was the accident reconstruction officer and was also a defensive tactics instructor.

While living in Wexford County, he was the Selma Township Supervisor for 19 years. After retiring from the Cadillac Police Department, he went to work for the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians. He started as a conservation officer, and then became Lieutenant of the Tribal Police Department. David also worked part time with the Manistee City Police Department.

David received his captain's license and ran Enforcer 2 Charters out of Manistee for over 11 years.

He was a member of the NRA, and the Police Officers Association of Michigan
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When he wasn't working, David enjoyed spending his time outdoors fishing and hunting. He was an avid Michigan Sports fan including the Lions, Red Wings, and Michigan Football.

David is survived by his wife, Mary; children Jessica (Steven) Witkowski of Manistee, Amanda (Matthew) Holmes of Spring Lake, MI, Angela (Kevin) Brintnell of Bonita Springs, FL, and Justin (Chelsea) Wheeler of Lake Orion, MI; grandchildren Sophie and Grace Witkowski, Dylan, Dayton, and Irelynn Holmes, Koen and Mayli Brintnell, and Collin and Emmett Wheeler; as well as many other family and friends.

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his son Kyle DeForest and grandson Derek Holmes.
According to David's wishes, no service will be held.

Please visit www.oakgrovefh.com to share a photo, memory, or condolences with David's family. Oak Grove Funeral Home in Manistee is honored to assist the family during this difficult time.