Marianne Naef

Marianne Naef, a beacon of generosity and optimism, passed away on March 15, 2025, in Spartanburg, SC, at the age of 86. Born on April 25, 1938, in St. Gallen, Switzerland, to the late Paul Naef and Helene Waeber, Marianne's spirited nature and zest for life touched everyone she met. She spent her final 14 years with Fred in Spartanburg, SC.

Marianne's journey was one of adventure and cultural immersion. Her life was a testament to her adaptability and support as she played a pivotal role in her husband Dante David's career in the hotel industry. This partnership and shared ambition took her across the globe, from the vibrant streets of Hong Kong, where her son Frederic was born, to the picturesque coast of Santa Margherita, Italy, where she welcomed her daughter Adrienne into the world. Marianne embraced the cultures of Bangkok, Thailand, and Seoul, Korea, before eventually settling in Mexico City, Mexico, where she continued to enrich the lives of those around her.

An educator at heart, Marianne taught French at the Alliance Francaise and shared her love for music by teaching piano to young children. Her dedication to service shone brightly through her countless hours spent volunteering at orphanages, particularly the Star of the Sea Orphanage in Korea. Marianne's legacy of giving extended beyond her immediate community, as she was also an accomplished author. Marianne wrote a book of poetry called "To Lost Time." Her literary contributions included a historical account of her family in Switzerland, a collection of poems, and a memoir, "The Orient that I have Known," which chronicled her rich experiences abroad.

Fluent in six languages, Marianne was the epitome of elegance and wit. Her intellectual pursuits were broad and deep, with a particular passion for history, especially French history. Her love for music never waned, as she continued to play piano pieces by Chopin, Mozart, and Liszt with great skill and emotion. A voracious reader, Marianne's thirst for knowledge was insatiable, and her love for travel was boundless. Her adventures took her to the plains of Africa, across the vast expanse of Russia on the Trans-Siberian Express, and through the rugged terrain of Peru to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. 

In her leisure, Marianne enjoyed the thrill of skiing and the tranquility of long walks and hikes. Later in life, she found solace in knitting, creating woolen scarves and toboggan hats that she generously donated to local charities. Above all, Marianne cherished the time spent with her family. She lived her final 14 years with her son Frederic and his children, and relished the extensive visits from her daughter Adrienne and her family from Ottawa, Canada. Her grandchildren, Frederic Jr., Analys, Ryan, Nicholas, and Mateo, brought her immense joy, as did the companionship of her brothers, George and Paul Naef.

Marianne is survived by her loving family: her son Frederic David, her daughter Adrienne David, her grandchildren Frederic Jr., Analys, Mateo, Ryan, and Nicholas, and her brothers George and Paul Naef. She was predeceased by her parents, Paul and Helene, and her beloved husband, Dante David.

Marianne Naef's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of love, learning, and laughter. Her generous spirit, optimistic outlook, and vivacious personality will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. As we bid farewell to Marianne, we celebrate the extraordinary legacy she leaves behind—a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide us through the memories she has gifted us.

A service will be held at Cremation Society of South Carolina- Westville Funeral, 6010 White Horse Rd. Greenville, SC 29611 on Wednesday March 19, 2025 at 11:00 AM.