Today, David continues to invent. Some products make it to market, others do not, but his mindset remains the same: every problem is an opportunity for innovation.
David John Crorey’s life is a powerful story of resilience, creativity, and determination, a journey that transformed challenges into opportunities.
David was born in Detroit, Michigan, at Saratoga Hospital, the eighth of nine children. His mother, Florence Morris Dale, emigrated from England at the age of eight and was known for her kindness. His father, William Crorey, grew up on a farm in Carsonville, Michigan, but struggled with alcoholism, creating a difficult family environment. At just 13, David made the courageous decision to leave home, moving to Alpena, Michigan, to live with his sister and brother-in-law. He helped by babysitting and working at their bar.At 16, he hitchhiked to Texas, stayed with his brothers, and worked three jobs while attending Thomas Jefferson High School, Port Arthur Texas.
David began his career in a manufacturing shop and soon applied for an apprenticeship as a toolmaker at ISI Manufacturing. That opportunity launched his 35-year career at ISI Manufactory and ISI Robotics, where he rose from the shop floor to Vice President. Through perseverance and innovation, he earned more than 35 patents and left a lasting impact on the industry. He retired early at the age of 55.
Retirement did not slow David down. He earned a builder’s license and founded Crorey Builder Inc. While working on drywall projects, he invented Blind Mark, a tool that made locating electrical boxes behind drywall easier. This sparked a series of inventions, including Ark Mark, Center Mark, Plug Mark, and Multi Mark. Around the same time, David’s granddaughters wanted to make friendship bracelets with Papa. Papa said, “No, I am watching the football game.” The girls shut off the TV and said, “No, Papa, we’re going to make friendship bracelets!” That moment showed who was really in charge. Frustrated by the tedious process, David invented the Friendship Bracelet Maker, which became a market success. From there, he created a dozen more craft toys and launched Choose Friendship Co., a company dedicated to creative craft products. He sold the drywall tool assets in 2015 and, in 2021, sold Choose Friendship LLC.
Today, David continues to invent. Some products make it to market, others do not, but his mindset remains the same: every problem is an opportunity for innovation.