David Hollister Obituary, Cause of Death: Lansing Mourns Former Mayor
LANSING, Michigan — Former Lansing Mayor David Hollister, a longtime public servant who played a significant role in the city’s development, has died at the age of 84.
Hollister died peacefully on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, in the presence of his family, according to a statement released by his family Wednesday. At the time of publication, no specific cause of death had been publicly disclosed.
Hollister devoted approximately 53 years to public service, serving as an educator, Ingham County commissioner, Michigan state legislator, mayor, state department director and economic development leader. He was elected mayor of Lansing in 1993 and went on to serve three terms, remaining in office until 2003.
He became particularly known for his efforts to keep General Motors operating in the Lansing region during the late 1990s. Hollister organized civic, business and government leaders in an effort to persuade GM to maintain its presence in the area, eventually helping secure new manufacturing investments.
His administration also oversaw major changes to downtown Lansing, including the development of the Stadium District and the arrival of minor-league baseball. In 2017, Lansing City Hall was renamed the David C. Hollister Building in recognition of his contributions to the city.
After leaving the mayor’s office, Hollister served as director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth under Gov. Jennifer Granholm. He later continued his work in regional economic development through the Prima Civitas Foundation and other civic organizations.
News of his death prompted tributes from Lansing officials, former colleagues and community leaders, who remembered his decades of involvement in the city’s civic and economic life. Memorial arrangements are expected to be announced by his family.
David Hollister leaves behind a public-service legacy closely connected with the modern history and development of Lansing and the wider Mid-Michigan region.