David Wilke

In Loving Memory of David Joseph Wilke

It is with heavy hearts that we honor the life of Dave Wilke, a man who was known to all who knew him as "Mr. Fix It." Whether it was the roof, the foundation, or anything in between, he could repair, restore, or rebuild it with his own two hands. His extraordinary talent for fixing things was matched only by his generosity - always ready to lend a hand, no matter the task, and no matter who was in need.

Dave was born with a natural skill and work ethic that took him from his childhood days working in his father's meat locker, Portsmouth Locker, to California, where he refined his craft as a butcher at the renowned "Block and Cleaver" under Bill and Phyllis Wetter. It was there that he met and married Susan Heiser (Mueller), and together they built a family with their daughter Julie and son Joseph.

But it wasn't just his work that defined him. Though he was well-known for his tireless dedication to his trade, he found peace and joy in simpler pleasures. Whether it was fishing on the open water or waiting quietly in a deer stand, he cherished the moments of solitude, the connection to nature, and the satisfaction of the hunt.

Above all, Dave will be remembered as a man who put family first. His children and grandchildren were the lights of his life, and he was never more than a phone call away, ready to offer wisdom, guidance, or just a helping hand. His legacy of love, hard work, and selflessness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Rest in peace, Dad. You have fixed and healed so much in this world, and now it is time for you to rest, knowing your work has left an indelible mark on all of us.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Larry Wilke.

David Wilke, age 66, passed away December 4, 2024. He was born February 5, 1958 to Gary "Tootie" and Mary Ella "Mitz" (Pauley) Wilke.

David is survived by his daughters, Julie (Ira) Patrick, Cara Schwinderman; son, Joseph Wilke; grandchildren, Anthony Smith, Ashley Smith, Brenna Smith, Analia Wilke, Andrew Wilke, Natalie Harms, Irelynn Harms, Jay Schwinderman; signficant other, Cheryl Anderson; brothers; Tom Wilke, Dennis (Pam) Wilke, Roger Wilke, Mark (Lisa) Wilke; sister, Charlene Wilke; nieces, nephews and a host of other family and friends.

Celebration of Life will be 12:00 pm -5:00 pm on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at Elks Lodge (380 McKenzie Ave, Council Bluffs, IA 51503).T

he family will direct memorials.