David John Pucci

David John Pucci, “Hawk” passed away peacefully December 1, 2024 at Howard Young Medical Center. Dave was a “Can Do Guy” who was always on the move and ALWAYS had a joke to make you smile. He loved his family, teaching and was a passionate sportsman and fishing guide. Woodworking and creating unique walking sticks kept him busy out in the woods collecting pine cones and gall blisters year round. 

Dave graduated from Catholic Memorial High School, Waukesha, Carol University, Waukesha with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education and Art and attended the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point to attain his Master of Education degree. He taught for 35 years as an elementary building principal in Germantown and taught middle school science in Northland Pines School District. 

Dave and Sue moved from Menomonee Falls to St. Germain in 1968 to teach. Following the lead of his mentors, Buckshot Anderson and Pop Dean, Dave started guiding fishing customers in 1969. Alongside his guiding, he built a bait and tackle shop and trapped his own minnows. Dave opened Hawk’s Nest Canoe Outfitters in the early 70’s which he and his family operated for 45 years. During the 80’s he directed and produced his statewide television shows “Wisconsin’s Outdoor Digest” and “Hunting and Fishing Guides.” Dave’s charisma and magnetic personality attracted clients from all walks of life including many McDonald Hamburger Executives.

After a wonderful life with a multitude of happy memories, Dave leaves Susan, his beloved wife of 57 years, his son Gaetano Pucci, daughter Erica Gammie, grandson Dustin Pucci, and brothers Thomas and Robert Pucci and many nieces, nephews and cousins and his dogs Rocky and Smalls.

Dave is preceded in death by his father Gaetano V. Pucci and mother Emily (Phillips) Pucci, sisters Patricia Bethke and Marietta and Richard Masters, brothers Dr. Joseph Pucci, Michael Pucci and sisters- in law Barbara Pucci, Dorthy Pucci, and Laurelei Pucci.

 Our family is very grateful for the many angels who provided Dave such wonderful care from the Plum Lake Ambulance, Marshfield Clinic in Woodruff and Weston, Riverview Health Services Tomahawk and Aspirus at Howard Young in Woodruff. Our many thanks to everyone for making his transition as peaceful and happy as possible. And many blessings to Father Jerry Hagen for his compassion and kindness. 

Online condolences may be shared at nimsgernfuneral.com. Nimsgern Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family and no formal celebration of life gatherings or services are planned at this time.

In lieu of flowers memorials in David's honor can be made to The Alzheimer's Association.