David W. Gretzinger, 81, of Deland, FL, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2022, surrounded by his family.

Raised in Central Florida, Dave "Papa" Gretzinger graduated from Boone High School and went on to Rollins College where he graduated in 1970. He had a long career in the Space Industry as a Reliability Engineer until he retired from Boeing. Although work and retirement took him to Houston, TX and Eagleville, TN, after losing his wife, Doris "Mimi" Gretzinger, he returned to Deland, FL to be closer to family.

Papa was a quiet man, he was adored and known by many in every community he resided, sharing the bounty of his prolific gardens and tasty home-brews and always going out of his way to help others. He loved spending time with his large family, children, grandchildren, in-laws and cousins-- all of whom will miss very dearly.

He is preceded in death by his wife Doris Mae Gretzinger, and stepson Richard E. Kavanaugh. He leaves his loving children and stepchildren, Michael Gretzinger and husband Vincent Russo, Atlanta, GA; David Gretzinger, Casselberry, FL; Douglas Gretzinger and wife Natalie, Longwood, FL; Ken Kavanaugh, Deland, FL; Michael and Pamela Kavanaugh, New Smyrna Beach, FL; DeAnn Sheldon, Littleton, CO; Cindy Kavanaugh, Apopka, FL; Flora Kavanaugh, Seattle, WA; sister-in-law Betty Guthardt of Deltona, FL; along with many deeply beloved grandchildren, extended family, dear friends and his pup George, who was lovingly adopted by son Michael and Vinny.

There will be a gathering for a Celebration of his life in the Summer of 2022.

The family of David W. Gretzinger invites you to leave a message of condolence on the Tribute Wall created in his loving memory.