William David “Dave” Darby, 74, formerly of Coldwater, passed away on Tuesday, June 16, 2015 in Arlington, TX. Dave strongly battled lung cancer for more than 13 years.

A memorial visitation will take place on Monday, July 13, 2015 from 12:00 – 2:00 PM at Dutcher Funeral Home in Coldwater. Interment will follow the visitation at Oak Grove Cemetery.

Dave was born March 18, 1941 to William and Trilby (Harter) Darby in Sturgis. During his years at Sturgis High School he was a star basketball player holding many records. After graduation from Sturgis High School, he continued his education at Western Michigan University studying business education and also earning a scholarship to play basketball. Dave was the President of Coldwater Rendering from 1977 - 1987, before transferring to Darling Delaware in Dallas, TX as an Executive Vice President.

Dave had many hobbies, including being an avid golfer. He was a huge sports fan of many teams, especially the University of Michigan. Dave had a sharp business mind. He will be remembered for having a big heart. He relished spending time with his family and friends and was a great mentor to his children and grandchildren. Dave was a resident of Arlington, TX for the past 20 years. He had made many close friends that admired his ability to do so many wonderful things for others.

Mr. Darby is survived by his children Kelly (Richard) Hackney of Austin, TX and Bridgette (Tim) Kellogg of Commerce Township, MI; Barb Darby, mother of Kelly and Bridgette and wife of 28 years of San Diego, CA; his sisters Shirley Miller and Kathleen (Kay) Newman; his grandchildren Elise and Preston Hackney, Darby and Riley Kellogg; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters Betty Kinsey, Marie Wilson, Ellen Lemp and Dorothy Hart.

Memorials may be directed to CHS Athletic Boosters. www.dutcherfh.com