West Bend, Wi – David Matthew Gonring, age 83, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at his home in Kewaskum. He was born on November 2, 1941, in West Bend to Roman and Victoria (nee Ewert) Gonring.
David is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 63 years, Joyce. He leaves behind a legacy through his children: Doug (Karen) Gonring, Bob (Karen) Gonring, Mary Jo (Mike) Otten, and Kathy (Doug) Buechel.
His cherished grandchildren include Lauren (Bryan) Miller, Tony (Mallorie) Gonring, Jordan (Mathias) Serwe, Steven Gonring (Angela), Kevin (Katie) Gonring, Bill (April) Otten, Tim (Katelyn) Otten, Bradley Buechel, and Matthew Buechel. He was also blessed with 14 great-grandchildren: Tyler, Brantley, Tucker, Bennett, Wesley, Brynlee, Mallorie, Cameron, Hudson, Nora, Jackson, Kenna, Brecken, and Scottie.
David is also survived by his siblings Marge Gonring, Tom (Mary) Gonring, and Sarah (Bob) Blas, along with beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents and his in-laws, John and Grace Kratz, whose memories he carried with him always. He was also preceded by several friends whose presence brought joy and meaning to his life. Their friendship remained a treasured part of his journey and continued to live on in his heart.
Dave often spoke of his life as if it were a book, each chapter filled with purpose, people, and moments that shaped his story. The early chapters were filled with the joy of childhood, growing up alongside his siblings, where laughter and learning laid the foundation for a well-lived life.
A defining chapter unfolded just one door down the road, where Dave met Joyce- the girl who would become the love of his life. On September 16, 1961, they were united in marriage at Holy Angels Catholic Church in West Bend. That day marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership, rooted in faith and love, that grew stronger with each passing year and endured for more than six decades.
In the chapters of his working years, Dave took great pride in running the West Bend Elevator alongside Joyce. His work was more than a job; it was a calling. Through farm visits, handshakes, and honest conversations, he built enduring friendships with employees, farmers, and business partners, each one a meaningful paragraph in his legacy.
The pages of his life were filled with adventure and joy. In his youth, Dave enjoyed playing in several sport leagues, especially softball. He found peace in the skies piloting a Cessna, and fulfillment tending to his farm- cutting wood, caring for horses and other animals, and nurturing apple trees, asparagus patch, and berries.
Then there is “Thirsty Thursdays,” where friends gathered, laughter echoed, and memories were made. A few favorite chapters were vacations with friends and time in Lake Havasu, where relaxation and laughter were always in good supply. But the most treasured pages were those filled with family, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, each one a beloved part of his story that he held closest to his heart.
Dave’s story lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, his words a gentle echo: “As one chapter closes, another begins.”
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Holy Angels Catholic Church (138 N 8th Ave. West Bend, WI 53095). Visitation will be on Tuesday, May 27 from 2 p.m. until 5:45 p.m. Private family burial will be at Washington County Memorial Park.
A special thank you to the staff of Preceptor for the loving care provided.
Wednesday, May 28:
A private family burial will take place at Washington County Cemetery in West Bend. Family members are asked to meet at the cemetery by 10 a.m.
