David A. Ulinski

David Alan Ulinski, 67, passed away on January 29, 2026, at home with his loving wife by his side, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

David lived life to the fullest and was a well-known drummer in the Toledo music scene beginning in the late 1970s. He graduated from Woodward High School in Toledo, Ohio, where he was a member of the marching band, an early sign of the lifelong path music would take in his life. He went on to tour the world with the band Opera Coupe and later made his home in Southern California for two decades. After returning to Toledo in 1999, he continued to share his love of music, playing drums with many of the area’s finest musicians. His musical taste spanned from The Beatles to Frank Zappa and beyond.

Beyond music, David had a passion for cooking that rivaled his musical talent. Larger than life, he was known for his strong opinions, dry humor, and unmistakable presence, earning the affectionate nickname “The Big Bam Boom.”

He is survived by his loving wife, Suzanne; stepchildren, Crystal (Mathew) Trombla, Amber (Robert) Engle, Mason Stone, and Hunter (Chloe) Tammarine; grandchildre,n Mila, Brantley, Henley, Caleb, and Ronan; siblings, Mark (Paula) Ulinski, Joseph (Kathleen Evans) Ulinski, Mathew (Jodi) Ulinski, Christopher Ulinski, and Mary Catherine (Allen) Ulinski-Cook; and many talented nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Marcella (Zientek) Ulinski, and his father, Karl Ulinski.

A private family gathering will be held at a later date to honor David’s life. Arrangements are being handled by the family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations in David’s name to BeInstrumental (music advocacy, education, and charity) and Elara Hospice.

https://www.beinstrumental.org/

https://elara.com/locations/toledo-oh/