David Duane “Turk” Layher, a longstanding resident of Chelsea, Michigan, passed away on December 12, 2025, at the age of 70 while receiving care at Michigan Medicine in Ann Arbor.
Born on June 20, 1955, in Ann Arbor to parents Duane Earl and Shirley Ann (Toney) Layher, he embodied the resilient spirit of Washtenaw County through decades of local involvement and hands-on contributions. The Chelsea community reflects on the enduring legacy of a man whose straightforward demeanor and underlying kindness shaped countless interactions.
Turk’s educational foundation began with his graduation from Chelsea High School in 1973, marking the start of a life deeply rooted in the area’s professional and recreational landscape. He initially worked at the Chrysler Proving Grounds in Chelsea, gaining experience in automotive testing environments before transitioning to entrepreneurship.
In 1982, he purchased Smith’s Towing, operating the business with dedication until its sale in 2020, providing essential roadside assistance and recovery services to residents across the region.
Beyond his career, Turk embraced a lifestyle rich in outdoor pursuits, frequently retreating to his cabin up north for relaxation and reconnection with nature. His passions included hunting and fishing, activities that offered both challenge and solace amid Michigan’s wilderness. Additionally, he took pride in the traditional craft of making maple syrup, a hobby that connected him to seasonal rhythms and shared family traditions in rural settings.
Turk actively participated in community organizations, holding membership in Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea, where he contributed to spiritual and social gatherings. He was also involved with the Chelsea Rod & Gun Club, aligning with his enthusiasm for outdoor sportsmanship, and volunteered at the Chelsea Fair, supporting local agricultural and cultural events that strengthened communal bonds.
In his personal life, Turk maintained close relationships with his daughters, Heidi (Chris) Traugott and Kimberly (Jorge) Rosario, both of Chelsea, as well as their mother, Terri Bollinger, also residing locally. He delighted in time spent with grandchildren Lidia, Braylon, and Gibson, alongside brother Jeff (Karen) Layher of Grass Lake and nieces Erin Trotter and Sarah Taylor. Known for a stubborn yet good-hearted nature, he balanced gruff exterior with genuine care for those in his circle.
David Duane “Turk” Layher lived a life well lived, characterized by entrepreneurial drive, outdoor adventures, and steadfast community engagement in Chelsea, Michigan. His legacy persists through the reliable services he provided via Smith’s Towing, the family bonds he nurtured, and the volunteer efforts that enriched local traditions. In this period of remembrance, his spirit endures as a testament to embracing Michigan’s natural beauty, hard work, and heartfelt connections among kin and neighbors.