Traverse City, MI - David "Dave" William Sondee, 66, of Traverse City passed away at the Villa at Traverse Point on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

Dave was born in Durham, North Carolina, to Ronald "Ron" and Mary Lynn (McCorkle) Sondee. In his early years, his family lived in the St. Joseph, Benton Harbor area before moving to Traverse City in 1972. He graduated from Traverse City High School in 1977, where he cherished the friendships with fellow students and various school sponsored activities including his time with the school choral group and tennis team.

After high school, Dave attended DePauw University before heading west to Aspen to begin his own adventure. Throughout his life, he worked in construction, oil and gas, and eventually found his place in the finance world, helping people secure mortgages. This included significant time in Texas which he proudly considered as his primary residence for many years and proclaimed loyalty to the Houston Texans. In 2022, Dave returned to Traverse City to be closer to his family.

Dave truly lived life to the fullest. In his younger years and beyond, he loved skiing, both water and snow, and had a deep passion for fishing. A certified diver, he was drawn to the ocean and all its beauty. A true free spirit with a vibrant personality, Dave brought energy and warmth wherever he went.

He was also a wonderful cook who could make just about anything, but he was especially famous for his homemade meatballs. Above all, Dave loved his family. Being "Uncle Davy" to his niece and nephew meant the world to him, and he loved them dearly.

Dave is survived by his loving parents, Ron and Mary Lynn Sondee; his brothers, Daniel (Ellen) Sondee and Steven Sondee; and his cherished niece and nephew Julia and Luke. He was preceded in death by his sister, Laura, who passed away in 2006.

A Memorial Service honoring Dave's life will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Mission Hill Church on the Peninsula, in the Howard Town Chapel, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Dave will be laid to rest in the Garden of Remembrance in the Church Gardens. Memorial contributions may be directed to The Mission Hill Church of Traverse City (formerly known as the First Congregational Church). Kindly share thoughts and memories with his family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.