David E. Ertel, age 77 of Bear Lake, passed away on Monday December 25, 2023.

Born on May 6, 1946, in Lebanon, Ohio, Dave was the son of the late Donald and Eleanor "Mickey" (McVey) Ertel. He was a 1964 graduate of Lebanon High School and he then went on to receive a BA degree from the University of Cincinnati.

Dave proudly served four years in the United States Navy, stationed in San Diego, CA, Lakehurst, N.J., and Milton, FL as a parachute rigger.

He was very active in amateur radio, talking to people all over the world. He belonged to radio clubs and ran what is known by "hams" as a net on the radio.

Dave worked in machine tools his entire life for Cincinnati Milacron and Gold Crown Machinery.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sandy; sons Joshua Ertel of Lebanon, OH and Jeremy Ertel of Bear Lake, MI; granddaughter Maizie Ertel of Lebanon, OH; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Dave was preceded in death by his brother Lynn.

A Celebration of Life for Dave will be held this spring.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a local veteran's organization of your choice.

Please visit Dave's personal page of memories at www.oakgrovefh.com to share a memory. Oak Grove Funeral Home in Manistee is honored to assist the family during this difficult time.