The Michigan Amateur Hockey Association mourns the loss of David C. Wiitanen, who passed away on Monday, January 24, 2022.
Born and raised in Hancock, Michigan, Dave’s contributions to the Michigan hockey community stretched across several decades. Beginning in 1963, Dave was a significant contributor to the growth of the Copper Country Junior Hockey Association (CCJHA), serving as both a coach and a board member. In 1969-70, Dave was elected President of the Michigan Amateur Hockey Association (MAHA). During this time, he dedicated himself to the ongoing grassroots growth of ice hockey throughout the state of Michigan.
In addition to his service to MAHA, Dave served as president of the Portage Lake Multi Educational Services. In this role, he spearheaded the relaunch of high school hockey in the Houghton / Hancock area. This included the development of a second indoor rink in Houghton County. Furthermore, he served on the Michigan Tech Blue Line Club and was president of the Michigan All-Stater Program, recognizing Michigan’s top high school hockey seniors. Dave also served as a USA Hockey Registrar for eight years.
In 2008, Dave contributed $5,000 to launch the Copper Country Hockey Youth Fund, an endowment created to make youth hockey more affordable for kids.
In 2014, Dave Wiitnanen was honored by USA Hockey with the Wm. Thayer Tutt Award, presented to a volunteer who has displayed selfless dedication to the enhancement of ice hockey at the grassroots level in the United States.
In 2021, Dave generously donated all of his hockey memorabilia to be display in a self-titled room in the Houghton County Arena.
Dave Wiitanen’s contributions to our community will never be forgotten, and he will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.
A funeral service for David will be held 1 p.m. Tuesday, February 1, 2022, at the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church of Hancock with Rev. Brahmn Semmler-Smith to officiate. Friends may call on Tuesday, February 1, 2022, at the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church of Hancock from 11 a.m. until time of services.
Spring burial will be in the Lakeside Cemetery of Hancock.
To view David’s obituary or to send condolences to the family please visit www.memorialchapel.net.
The Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Service of Hancock has been assisting the family with the arrangements.