David Welke

David Welke, age 77, of Huron, passed peacefully into God's grace Monday, February 23, 2026.

His celebration of life will take place 12:00 PM, Friday, February 27, at Kuhler Funeral Home. Visitation will take place one hour prior.

David “Woody” John Welke was born March 14, 1948, in Redfield, SD to Wilbur “Willie” Dean Welke and Betty Jean Shaw. Woody grew up in Redfield, and attended Redfield High School. He enlisted in the US Navy on March 16, 1965 through May 23, 1968.

After returning from the Navy, Woody moved to Los Angeles, CA. He then moved back to Redfield, South Dakota and married to Margie Rose Nelson on March 11, 1975. They had their first daughter, Tina Janel Welke on July 4, 1975. Two years later, they welcomed their second daughter, Traci Jo Welke, on August 6, 1975.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Woody was a very skilled plumber who could fix just about anything. He took pride in his skills. He loved reading, playing pool, watching old westerns and adored anything boxing! Woody was also a very skilled gardener and grew the most delicious tomatoes. Woody was raised in the Catholic church and his faith was very important to him. He was a pensive human and an avid reader and incredible problem-solver in life. He was curious about the world and loved to discuss politics and could talk to anyone. He loved his children and grandchildren and was an avid Duke Blue Devils fan!

He is survived by his two wonderful daughters, Tina Welke of Minneapolis, MN and Traci Mathies of Rice, MN. Tina Welke is partnered with Barrett Haroldson and has 2 children, a daughter, Zander Costello (14) and a son, Zavier Costello (12). Traci Mathies is married to Mike Mathies and they have 4 sons, Camdin Carlson-Mathies (26), Dominic Mathies (22), Cohen Mathies (20) and Beckam Mathies (15). Woody has 2 sisters, Diane Martin of MN and Jill Armstrong of CA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wille and Jean Welke; his brother, Jack; and his sister, Debbie; as well as his grandmother and the matriarch of the family, Nell Shaw. Woody was the man he was because of the love and devotion between him and Margie, his incredible wife, who died on September 18, 2005.