David Joseph Obituary, TOLEDO, Ohio — David M. Joseph, a longtime Toledo businessman, family man and active member of the St. George Antiochian Cathedral community, passed away Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at his home following a 3½-year battle with cancer. He was 64.
Born November 16, 1961, David was the youngest of five sons of George and Corrine (Darah) Joseph. He attended Maumee Valley Country Day School, graduated from Southview High School and later attended the University of Toledo, where he was a beloved brother of the Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity.
David followed his family’s tradition of working with Joseph’s Supermarkets from a young age. A natural entrepreneur, he owned several companies during his career, while his primary professional focus remained with the Joseph family businesses. He spent much of his time at Joseph’s Beverage Center, where he became a cornerstone of the day-to-day operation and played an instrumental role in the store’s 2017 renovation. He also worked alongside his brothers as a partner in Joseph’s Real Estate Companies.
Faith and community were important parts of David’s life. He was a lifelong member of St. George Antiochian Cathedral, where he served on the Church Board and was a member of the Endowment Committee. He was also deeply involved in the church’s annual summer festival and was known for being the top ticket seller each year for the Ladies’ Benevolent Society dinner.
David was remembered for his larger-than-life personality and his love of entertaining. He was a cigar aficionado, bourbon collector and fine-wine enthusiast who enjoyed gathering family and friends in his backyard. He especially loved preparing barbecue ribs, with a longstanding family debate over whether he or his brother Brad made the better ribs. He was also a devoted University of Toledo football and basketball fan and proudly supported Ohio State. Later in life, he enjoyed traveling to Marco Island, Florida, continuing a tradition started by his parents.
David is survived by his four children, David M. (Jamie Spencer), Samantha (Nick Carmony), Valerie and Joshua (Mychal Naylor). He took great joy in his grandchildren, Chloe, David III and Leo, and was eagerly anticipating the arrival of his fourth grandchild this fall. He is also survived by his brothers G. Christopher (Regina), Bradley (Elizabeth) and Craig (Michelle), along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Paul.
Visitation will be held Friday, August 14, from 2 to 8 p.m. at St. George Antiochian Cathedral, 3754 Woodley Rd., Toledo, with a Trisagion Prayer Service at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue Saturday, August 15, from 11 a.m. until the funeral service at noon, also at St. George Antiochian Cathedral. Interment will follow at Ottawa Hills Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial donations to St. George Antiochian Cathedral.
David M. Joseph leaves behind a legacy rooted in family, faith, hard work, business and the many relationships he built throughout his life. His memory will remain with his children, grandchildren, brothers, extended family, friends, church community and the many people whose lives he touched through Joseph’s businesses and his years of service. The thoughts and condolences of the community are with David’s family and loved ones as they remember his life and mourn his passing.
