David A. Knospe

David A. Knospe, age 54, of Merrill, passed away on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at his home, while surrounded by his loving and supportive family and while under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services, after a long battle with cancer. He was born on September 10, 1970, to Thomas and Sheryl (Severt) Knospe in Merrill. David attended and graduated from Merrill High School. David met his best friend and soul mate, Shelly Varsho, and the two exchanged marriage vows on September 5, 2005, a union lasting almost 20 years.

David was a man that wore many hats. He was a machinist, did woodworking projects, was an airplane mechanic and enjoyed flying the airplanes. He would always look forward to the next road trip on his motorcycle, something that gave him a sense of peace and relaxation, he especially loved riding in the Fall and taking in all of the beautiful scenery. David also enjoyed going on hikes and playing a few rounds of golf. He enjoyed and appreciated the outdoors, and would stop to admire and comment on the little things in life. His family was his world. David’s kids have many good memories of him, whether it was working on his projects in the garage, watching the storms roll in or sitting around the campfire, enjoying the beauty of nature. He also would volunteer his time with the food pantry, and was always about helping others. David had a positivity that left an impression on all who met him. Even in his darkest times, he would see the silver lining. He had great dad jokes that he told and had a witty sense of humor. David will be missed dearly, and was a blessing to his family and friends.

David leaves behind his parents: Thomas and Sheryl Knospe, wife: Shelly Knospe, daughter: Arwen, son: Treg, sisters: Sue (Daren) Catlin and Kathy (John) Koehler, brother: Jon (Aimee) Knospe, mother-in-law: Juanita Varsho, all of Merrill, brother-in-law: Shawn Varsho, sister-in-laws: Kristy (Aaron) Kelly of Marshfield and Kimberly (Jason) Knaack of Minnesota, nephews: Tyler (Morgan) Catlin, Michael Catlin, Andrew (Chandra) Koehler, Logan Knospe, Landon Knospe, and Isaac Knaack, nieces: Katie (Mitchell) Badeau, Krissy (fiancé, Ashton Polega) Koehler and Naomi and Miriam Knaack, along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, cherished friends and loved ones, also his dogs: Chance and Zippy. He is preceded in death by his grandparents: Matt and Virginia Severt and Eliza and James Knospe, and cousins: Jered Severt, Nate Knospe, Sarah Severt and Michael Knospe, uncles: James, Steve and Bruce (Carol) Severt.

The funeral service for David will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Merrill. Rev. Justin Smoot will officiate. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service, also at the church. Burial at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery will immediately follow the service.

David’s family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you for the love and support that cousin Amy had shown David throughout his treatments, doctor visits, and much more. They also want to thank Dr. Peterson and the oncology staff at the Aspirus Cancer Center for their care and compassion, and to UW-Madison for being able to give David more time with his beloved family.

Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation Services of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com.