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BORN
1935
DIED
2026
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David Bakalars Obituary
November 29, 1935 - January 13, 2026
David K. Bakalars, 90, passed away on January 13, 2026, at Spring Brook Assisted Living in Onalaska. He was born in La Crosse, Wisconsin, on November 29, 1935, to Edward and Effie (Hansen) Bakalars. On September 17, 1955, David married Sonja (Asmus) Bakalars and they celebrated nearly 70 years of marriage. He was a 1953 graduate from Central High School, where he was involved in multiple athletics, and he held the city swimming record in the 50-yard freestyle.
David spent time serving his country on active duty with the U.S. Army before continuing his service in the U.S. Army Reserve, where he performed railroad maintenance work.
David spent many years working as Production Planning Supervisor at Altec (formerly Trane).
David was a proud family man and had an unparalleled love for his wife, children, and grandchildren. He enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren participate in many activities over the years. His adventures with his grandchildren gave him so much joy. David also enjoyed golfing, traveling on cruises with his wife and their friends, listening to music, and watching the Packers. He loved keeping busy around his house and yard. He was fond of collecting esoteric trinkets and would always bring home anything interesting he would find on his frequent mall walks. In earlier years, David and Sonja spent many Saturday evenings dancing at the Avalon and Concordia dance halls.
The gift of David's friendly demeanor, caring attitude, sense of humor, as well as the tunes he hummed, will be missed and live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
David is survived by his two children, daughter, Paula (Dave) Klein; and son, Scott Bakalars; his two grandchildren, Alex Peterson and Dayna Zielke; and his brother Richard (Micheline) Bakalars.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Sonja, and five brothers, Robert, Gordon, James Ronald, and Edward Jr.
Funeral services will be held at Dickinson Funeral Home, 1425 Jackson St, La Crosse, Wis., on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. Visitation will be at 10 am, service at 11, followed by a light lunch and fellowship, after which burial will be at Mormon Coulee Memorial Park.
Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.dickinsonfuneralhomes.com
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