David Elmer Esterby, age 75 of Ellsworth, WI, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by the love of his family on March 24, 2020. David was born December 16, 1944 in Red Wing, MN to Marion and Virginia (Anderson) Esterby. He graduated from Ellsworth High School with the Class of 1962. Dave was united in marriage on November 29, 1969 to Dianna Marie Pechacek at St. Mary’s Big River Catholic Church. Their marriage was blessed with four children, Jeffrey, Marion, Kelly and Andrew.

Dave was a dairy farmer for most of his life, proudly working the Century farm until his retirement in April 2001. He received the soil conservation award twice, was a FFA Alumni, and enjoyed attending tractor pulls. Dave was especially fond of John Deere machinery and collecting John Deere toys. He found enjoyment in going to threshing shows, collecting steam engine whistles, good stories, chocolate, and a fine joke. He was passionate about woodworking, carpentry, and often created wood masterpieces to donate for charity.

Dave was a devoted member of St. Francis Catholic Church in Ellsworth. He served as an usher for over 38 years, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. Dave also served as the town chairman for Hartland Township for 22 years, and was on the Ellsworth Co-op Creamery Board from 1996 – 2001.

Dave had a love of travel and adventure, and especially loved the Grand Canyon. David, Jeff and Marion hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and back up again in the same day. His favorite trip was 2 weeks in Canada with Dick and Darla Fischer.

David provided a great example of strength, hard work, and devotion to his family. He was a loving husband, dad, and grandfather. Dave will remain in the hearts of his wife, Dianna; children, Jeffrey Esterby, Marion (Becky) Esterby, Kelly (Michael) Nelson, and Andrew (Tracie) Esterby; grandchildren: Christopher, Katlyn, Megan, Madyson, Abby, Ben, Zoe, Cooper, Andrea, and Noah. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marion and Virginia Esterby; and his brother, James.

A Gathering of Family and Friends will take place from 11:00am to 2:00pm on Sunday, July 25, 2021 at Ridgetop W10516 US-10, Prescott, WI 54021. A luncheon to take place at that time.

Cremation services provided by O’Connell-Benedict Family Funeral Home of Ellsworth (715) 273-4421. www.oconnellfuneralservices.com