Dave Posavetz, Longtime Macomb Daily Photographer, Dies

David Nicholas Posavetz, an award winning photo journalist and beloved husband and father, died of a sudden heart attack Wednesday in his Grosse Pointe Farms home.

Mr. Posavetz, 67, born and raised in Detroit, graduated from Wayne State University with an undergraduate degree in psychology and masters degree in fine arts.

He had recently retired as Chief Photographer from the Macomb Daily where he worked for 40 years. His work appeared in the Associated Press, Time Magazine, Life Magazine, Newsweek Magazine and many other local and national publications. His career included numerous awards from the Associated Press, United Press International, Michigan Press Association, the Society of Professional Journalists and a nomination for a Pulitzer Prize.

He began his journalism career as a photographer at The Detroit News.

During his time at the Macomb Daily, Mr. Posavetz participated in the newspaper's conversion to digital.

"Dave Posavetz was the best breaking news photographers I worked with in my 42 years at The Macomb Daily. He jumped freeway fences, found a way around police barricades and did whatever needed to provide our readers with great news photos", said Ken Kish, former Macomb Daily Editor. "But even with his many awards, he never forgot that his career was second to his family. He was a loving husband, a dedicated father and a great friend. We enjoyed a professional life together, but even more a personal friendship between wives and families."

Among many memorable moments he captured with his camera included U.S. presidents, CEOs, and the rich and famous including actress Elizabeth Taylor during the National Republican Convention in 1980.

"Dave was the most amazing, charming, and compassionate man. He was smart, adventurous, and always able to make life fun and interesting. He was a truly remarkable husband and father", said Nancy Cain Posavetz, his wife of 35 years.

They met at the Macomb Daily years ago when Cain-Posavetz was a reporter.

The couple has a son, Nicholas David Posavetz, an economic development official working for Macomb County.

"He was absolutely the best dad a man could be, being around him made every day better. He had that effect on everybody. I love him and will miss him so much", his son Nick Posavetz said.

In addition to photography being a career and hobby, he was a certified scuba diver, a licensed pilot, owning a two-seater Cessna 150M plane which he flew from Detroit's City Airport. He co-owned a 26-foot sailboat which he and three friends from elementary school in Detroit refurbished and sailed from a marina in St. Clair Shores. He was a life-long traveler.

"Dave has been my lifelong friend for over 60 years," said Tom Jepsen. "We always called ourselves brothers, sharing so many interests and spending so much time together.  The void he's left in my life will never be filled."

Dave was a member of Society of Professional Journalists, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association and the Experimental Aviation Association.

His parents, Walter and Zora Posavetz, preceded him in death. Mr. Posavetz is survived by his wife, Nancy, son, Nicholas, and many beloved cousins, aunts and uncles.

There will be a visitation Sunday 2-4 pm with a scripture service at 4pm at the A. H. Peters Funeral Home, 20705 Mack Avenue at Vernier Road, Grosse Pointe Woods. In state Monday 11:30 am until time of funeral Mass 12 noon at St. Clare of Montefalco Catholic Church, 1401 Whittier, Grosse Pointe Park. Memorial contributions may be made to E. A. A. Young Eagles, c/o Tuskegee National Air Museum, P.O.Box 32549, Detroit, MI 48232. Please write EAA Young Eagles in memo line on check.