October 17, 1938 – February 20, 2025
A cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, David Wesley Clutter, 86, of Friendswood, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2025, surrounded by his family.
David was born on October 17, 1938, in Toledo, Ohio, to parents Charles and Martha (Delph) Clutter. He was raised in Adrian, Michigan. He graduated from Adrian Catholic Central High School in 1956 and attended Michigan State and Ferris Institute. He later married his true love, Michele Hand, on February 6, 1963.
David forged a long career spanning over 40 years in the steel industry. While living in Hayward, California, he accepted a position with L. B. Foster Steel Company in Seattle, Washington. He relocated with his wife and two daughters to Kirkland, Washington, where he worked as a steel salesman. Living in Kirkland, David and Michele welcomed two more children to their family. As David’s career grew, he was offered a position in Hayward, California, and the family moved to San Ramon, California. As David’s career continued to flourish, another opportunity presented itself with Skyline Steel Corporation. David had the opportunity to open a division in Houston, Texas. Thus, the family’s journey included a move to Friendswood, Texas. As David’s talents, expertise, and ingenuity continued to grow, he soon became the President of Skyline Steel Corporation, requiring yet another move. David and Michele took a leap of faith and moved to New York City. David moved the corporate office to Parsippany, New Jersey for the forthcoming expansion that occurred with acquisitions and creations of multiple companies under his leadership. David and Michele bought a bungalow in Greenpond, New Jersey, and split their time living there and in Friendswood, Texas. In 1994, David was knighted by the Grand Duke of Luxembourg, bestowing upon him the title Sir David. He retired in 2006 after 40 years in the steel industry.
When he retired, he was able to focus more attention on his hobbies and interests, including fishing. David’s passion for fishing and for boats began at a young age on Evans Lake in Michigan. In his youth, he enjoyed racing his outboard hydro boat. Later, he enjoyed fishing in his spare time in the Pacific Northwest, including the Puget Sound, San Francisco Bay and along the Pacific Coast. After moving to the East Coast, David also enjoyed fishing in the Atlantic Ocean. Many trips were made offshore to the canyon and other favored fishing spots. David had various boats throughout his life. However, in the early 2000s, he purchased a 1966 Bertram 31, which he lovingly refurbished. He named the boat "Kailey Michele" in honor of his granddaughter.
David and Michele made their home in both Friendswood, Texas, and Greenpond, New Jersey, and cherished their years together. David truly loved his family. He was a Protector, Leader, Mentor to all that he considered family or friend. He was kindhearted, loving and compassionate. He was an honest, loyal, true God-fearing man respected by his family and all that knew him.
David is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Martha Clutter; his sister, Beverlea Hill; his brother, Roland Clutter, and his wife, Beverly; his son, David Clutter Jr.; and his granddaughter, Kailey Tedford.
David is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Michele; his son, Charles Clutter; his daughters, Tamara (Greg) Rashleigh, Jenell (Jason) Leary, Joelle (Ryan) Tedford; his daughter-in-law, Debbie Clutter; 13 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Friends and family are cordially invited to the visitation on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 from 1:00PM – 2:00 PM followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM at Jeter Memorial Funeral Home, 311 North Friendswood Drive, Friendswood, Texas 77546 (281) 992-7200. Reverend Clarence Landry and Grandson Joseph Rashleigh officiating. Pallbearers: Grandsons Joseph and John Rashleigh, James David Strachan, Jaxon and Hudson Clutter, Riley and Reid Tedford.
Condolences may be sent to the family in care of Jeter Memorial Funeral Home, www.jeterfuneralhome.com.
