David Donald Ihrke

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of David Ihrke at the age of 91 on November 20, 2025. Dave was born on September 11, 1934, in a farmhouse outside of Eyota, Minnesota. In one room of the house, a funeral was taking place; in the next room, David Ihrke entered the world. As one soul left this life, another arrived, a quiet beginning that somehow fits the gentle, steady way Dave lived his days.

Dave was the middle child of nine. He grew up working hard on the family farm, creating lifelong memories with his siblings. The values he learned their hard work, humility, loyalty and love of family never left him.

Dave attended the University of Minnesota and later Mankato State University, where he met the love of his life, Danna Koop. They married in 1960 and settled in Rochester, Minnesota. There, Dave built a long and dedicated career at IBM and, together with Danna, raised their three children, Jeff, Sue and Chris. Though Dave enjoyed his work, the farm boy in him never faded. After retirement, he became a Master Gardener. He took pride in tending his lawn, planting flowers and helping others out with their gardening.

Family was always at the center of Dave's life. He loved attending his children's sporting events and coaching their teams. Later, as his family grew, he delighted in spending time with his nine grandchildren. Some of their best memories are early mornings gathered around the kitchen table, where Grandpa Dave would make his famous "toastie-toastie" and play hand after hand of Old Maid and Go Fish.

Dave was happiest on a warm summer day, sitting out on the deck with Danna talking with neighbors and family.

In his later years, Dave and Danna moved to Sunrise Assisted Living in Minnetonka. There, he continued to enjoy music (though he remained decidedly not a fan of bingo) and he made friends with the same warmth and openness that had defined his whole life. He was a loving, fun and calming presence to all who knew him. Thank you to the Sunrise and New Perspective employees for the love and care they provided for Dave and Danna.

Dave's legacy lives on in the stories he told, the lessons he quietly taught, and the love he poured into his family and friends. Those who were blessed to know him will carry his kindness, his humor, and his gentle spirit in their hearts, always.

Dave is survived by his children, Jeff Ihrke (Kathy), Sue Rahm (Jeff), Chris Ihrke (Kristine). His grandchildren, Andrea Talamantes (Angel), Andrew Ihrke (Jordan), Allison Ihrke (Tyler), Griffin Rahm (Emily), Callahan Rahm, Owen Rahm (Ashley), Dawson Ihrke, Cassie Ihrke, Jackson Ihrke. Sisters, Marion Bicknese, Luan Daniels, Carol Johnson and brother, Jim Ihrke.
Preceded in death by wife, Danna (Koop) Ihrke, his parents Edwin and Mabel Ihrke, his brothers, Marlow, Glenn, and Dean Ihrke and his sister, Jan Moehnke. A private celebration of life will be held with his immediate family in the spring.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Ihrke family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com.