Coach David Minch and Wife Susan Turn Transplant Battle into Advocacy Before His Passing at 81

David Minch lived with courage, humor, and his beloved family by his side.

February 10, 2026

This article was last updated by Rohit Maharjan on February 10, 2026

David L. Minch, a softball and basketball coach, passed away due to prolonged illness at the age of 81 on February 7, 2026, at Corewell Hospital in Troy, Michigan.

His knee replacement revealed an underlying autoimmune condition that was attacking his liver, and he underwent a liver transplant in November 2005.

David L. Minch passed away at 81. (Source: Sullivan & Son Funeral Directors)

David L. Minch taught junior high history, geography, English, and journalism for 38 years.

His students remember him not for long lectures but for his unique methods of illuminating social studies, making the past feel vivid, relevant, and exciting.

Beyond the classroom, his dedication extended to the playing fields, where he coached girls’ basketball and softball. His commitment and guidance led his teams to numerous district championships.

He was a mentor who shaped young minds with passion, leaving a lasting legacy of inspiration both in the classroom and on the court.

Also, see:

Coach David Minch’s 58-Year Love Story with Wife Susan, Forged in Illness and Advocacy

David L. Minch was a dedicated educator and coach whose compassion profoundly shaped the lives of countless students.

Sadly, he passed away at 81 after a prolonged illness on February 7, 2026, at Corewell Hospital in Troy, Michigan.

David L. Minch, the son of Everett F. and Helen D. Minch, was born on January 19, 1945, in Ellwood, Indiana. His family later moved to Williamston, Michigan.

He found the love of his life, Susan Galbraith, at Albion College, where he earned his teaching certificate with a major in History and a minor in English.

They married in 1967 and built a partnership that would become the bedrock of their family for 58 years. They raised two children who reflect their enduring values of service and education.

Their daughter, Marcia Franks, became an occupational therapist, providing care in Detroit-area health systems. Their son, Dr. Kevin Minch, followed in his father’s footsteps as a communication professor and serves as Associate Provost at Truman State University.

A routine knee surgery revealed an underlying autoimmune condition attacking David’s liver in 2005, abruptly ending his teaching career. He received a life-saving liver transplant and was gifted an additional 20 years of life.

He and Susan became active volunteers for the Henry Ford Hospital Transplant Community and Gift of Life Michigan, passionately advocating for organ donation.

David faced his ongoing health challenges with a formidable will, an infectious sense of humor, and the unwavering, tireless care of his wife, Susan.

He was known for his collection of sarcastic graphic t-shirts, which alternately amused and startled his medical teams, always using laughter to put others at ease, even in his most difficult moments.

David is survived by his devoted wife, Susan Minch; children, Marcia Franks and Dr. Kevin Minch; grandchildren, Kyle and Neil Franks; brother, Fred Minch; and three nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; mother-in-law, Phyllis Galbraith; nephew, Spencer Minch; and son-in-law, Christopher Franks.

The Minch family hasn’t planned a funeral service. A private family memorial will be scheduled at a later date at Washtenog Memorial Park in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he will be laid to rest.

Instead of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Gift of Life Michigan () to support the life-changing work of organ transplantation.

Rest In Peace, David L. Minch.

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Ashish Maharjan, author at Players Bio, has been covering news with a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling. A writer with a passion for capturing the essence of athletic competition.

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