David L.K. Supernaw Obituary
David L. K. Supernaw, known to family and friends as Dave, passed away on September 10, 2026, in Standish, Michigan, at the age of 78.
Dave was born on December 20, 1947, in Flint, Michigan, to David and Ethel (Pierson) Supernaw. He grew up in Flint and attended Flint schools, where he laid the foundation for a life marked by hard work, dedication, and service to others. He went on to earn his associate degree, which helped him pursue a meaningful career in law enforcement, a path that reflected both his sense of duty and his courageous spirit.
Dave devoted 28 years of service to the county and retired in 2007 from the Arenac County Sheriff's Department as a Sheriff's Deputy, K-9 Handler. During his time in the Sheriff's Department, he even worked a few years as the Under Sheriff for Gladwin County. Throughout his career, he earned the respect of those who worked alongside him and those he served. He was known as a dependable officer who approached his work with integrity, steadiness, and a genuine commitment to his community. His years in law enforcement were a reflection of the values he carried throughout his life.
On November 11, 2004, Dave married the love of his life, Nancy Abbott/Chmura Supernaw, in Oatman, Arizona. Together they shared many years of love, companionship, and adventure. Nancy survives him and will always cherish the life they built together. Dave's family was the center of his world, and he took great pride in each member of it.
He is survived by his son Lance Supernaw, who lives in the Philippines; his daughter-in-law Marnie Supernaw in Florida; his son Jay Supernaw (Miia) in South Bend, Indiana; his daughter-in-law Laurie Supernaw in Florida; his son Steve Chmura (Amy) in St. Croix, Virgin Islands; his son Keith Chmura in Twining; his daughter in law Dawneen Chmura (Steve) in Alaska; and his daughter in law Amie Chmura in Prescott, Michigan. He is also survived by nine grandchildren, Alexandria (Dylan) Hastings in Nevada, Jordan (Reno) Thornton in Texas, Paige Chmura (Derek) in Alaska, Kennedy (Johnny) Navarro in Arizona, Jaxson Supernaw, Isabella Supernaw, Logan Supernaw, Julianna Supernaw all in Florida, and Giana Chmura in Twining. In addition, he leaves behind five great-grandchildren, Peyton Hastings, Bowen and Blair Thornton, and Malichi and Lincoln Navarro.
Dave is also survived by his brothers, Dennis (late Dianna 2026) Supernaw of Arizona and Don (Lori) Supernaw of Muskegon, Michigan. He is further survived by his sister/brother-in-law, Ronda (Gus) Engelhardt of Birch Run, Michigan, sisters-in-law Peggy Caffrey of Georgia, and Judy Abbott (Rick) of Twining, Michigan, as well as his mother-in-law, Idella Abbott of Standish, Michigan and his Aunt Janice Pierson of Pinconning Michigan. He was preceded in death by his parents, aunts and uncles.
Those who knew Dave will remember him as loving, funny, and courageous. He had a warm personality and a quick sense of humor that could brighten any room. He loved to travel in his motorhome and found joy in the open road, visiting places such as Alaska, Texas, and Arizona, among many others. If there was a road to follow, Dave would take it to see where it led, always eager for the next adventure and the next memory to be made.
Dave was also a faithful member of the American Legion Standish Post, where he shared fellowship and camaraderie with others who valued service and community. His life was one of commitment, family, and exploration, and he will be remembered for the love he gave, the laughter he shared, and the strength he showed throughout his years. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Honoring Dave's wishes cremation has taken place with no service or memorial planned at this moment. Arraignments have been entrusted to Lee Ramsay Funeral Home Standish.
