David Emil Gehrke

David Gehrke - service live stream

 

David Emil Gerhke was born on October 15, 1936 to Walter and Ella (Kelm) Gehrke in Luverne, Minnesota. He was raised on a small farm north of Beaver Creek, Minnesota, a farm he would call home for most of his life. He attended Beaver Creek public school through the eighth grade and then helped his parents work the farm. When he was old enough, David joined the National Guard, but continued to care for the land. David was united in marriage to Lucille Kitchenmaster on September 19, 1971 at St. John Lutheran Church in Luverne. Lucille helped David take care of the farm and the couple led a very quiet, very happy life until Lucille’s untimely death in 1990. David continued doing what he loved best, farming, until his retirement in May 2018. After he had a fall, David moved off of the farm and into Poplar Creek living facility in Luverne and then to the Good Samaritan Society - Mary Jane Brown Home in September 2022. On October 2, 2023, David joyfully joined his wife, Lucille, in the arms of their Savior Jesus Christ at the age of 86 years, 11 months, and 18 days.

 

David was a quiet man who enjoyed his simple, quiet life. He loved farming and fishing, especially when he was able to do that with his wife, Lucille. David was a lifelong member of the St. John Lutheran Church. He is also remembered for his jokes and laughter, and enjoyed sharing his love for International Tractors with all his John Deere loving friends. 

 

David is lovingly remembered by his sisters, Carol Jueneman of New Hope, Minnesota, and Lois Harberts of Rushmore, Minnesota; brother-in-law, Robert (Mary) Kitchenmaster of Mankato, Minnesota; Goddaughter, Lori Rehnblom of Brainerd, Minnesota; aunt, Phyllis Kelm of Garretson, South Dakota; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lucille; and parents, Walter and Ella Gehrke.

In lieu of flowers, family request donations be made to:

St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church

or

Sanford Hospice