David E. Erby

1941 - 2025

David E. Erby
Born: August 27, 1941
Died: March 24, 2025
David E. Erby, 83, of Rock Falls, died Monday March 24, 2025 at home surrounded by his family after a 10-year battle with Parkinson's Disease.
Dave was born on September 27, 1941 in Madison, WI to David H. and Doris L. (Wolferman) Erby. He was a 1959 graduate of Sterling High School and went on to serve two years in the U.S. Army stationed in Germany. He married Pamela A. Viren on November 3, 1963 in Rock Falls. Dave worked at Northwestern Steel and Wire for 36 years, retiring as the Production Manager of the Wire Division in 1999. He took great pride in his job at the mill.
Dave had a love for cars beginning at an early age. In high school he enjoyed drag racing with his buddies. Once married, cruising the local car lots became a family tradition. Dave enjoyed many trips abroad with his wife, attending auctions and antiquing. One of his greatest joys was time spent with his grandchildren. He was their biggest fan and supporter of all things. Dave will be dearly missed by us all, though we find comfort in knowing he is now unburdened by his failing body.
Survivors include his wife Pam; two daughters: Kimberly (James) Velazquez and Erika (Tom) Workman both of Rock Falls; five grandchildren: Rylee Kunde-Workman, Olivia (Connor) Cain, Clay Velazquez, Abby Workman and Kody Velazquez; and great granddaughter Remi Cain, who was sure to bring a smile to his face. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother James Erby.
Visitation will be Monday March 31, 2025 from 9:00 to 11:00am at McDonald Funeral Home in Rock Falls. A memorial service will follow at 11:00am at the funeral home with Pastor Les Funderberg officiating. Burial will conclude at Coloma Township Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Congregational Church of Rock Falls or NICAA Golden Meals.