With profound sadness, we announce the passing of David Lee Kuester, who entered Eternal Rest on April 23, 2026. Born on October 17, 1942, in West Bend, Wisconsin, David’s journey was one of adventure, devotion, and love. He attended West Bend High School and began his college studies in Milwaukee, where he studied aircraft maintenance. He then chose to serve in the United States Air Force, where he taught jet engine maintenance. After his service, David launched a distinguished career as Chief of Aviation Maintenance at Grainger Company. Upon retiring from Grainger, he continued to share his talents and passion for over twenty years at Midwestern Shooter’s Supply.

David’s life was truly illuminated by love, a light that grew even brighter when he met Marilyn in 1980. Their paths crossed at a small convenience store and gas station, where Marilyn worked her way through nursing school and David, ever the devoted customer, found more than just daily essentials, he found a love that would define his life. Their love blossomed and led to marriage in 1981 in their beloved hometown of West Bend. Together, they built a warm home where David, a wonderful cook, delighted in preparing meals for others. He cherished making holiday feasts, homemade spaghetti with Italian sausage, his famous chili, and his grandchildren’s favorite tuna salad. Every dish expressed his warmth and generosity.

An avid huntsman, David cherished the quiet thrill of the woods and camaraderie with friends and found simple joy in fishing. Skilled at reloading guns and as a Ham radio operator, he always sought connection and community. He found peace as a passionate scuba diver, a love began in Puerto Rico and sustained throughout his life. His heart belonged to dogs, especially Chesapeakes and Dachshunds, whose presence brought him joy.

He is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn; sisters, Mary (John) Lukaszewski and Susie (Jerry) Homuth; daughters, Kristina (Brian) Walesa and Anna (Andy) Angell; grandchildren, Rachel (Cameron) Keideth, Chad Truog, Trevor Angell, and Evan Angell; two beloved great-grandchildren, Hudson and Hallie; and many cousins, nephews, and nieces. All who will cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Ethel (née Rusch) Kuester.

A private committal service will be held at Washington County Memorial Park. Afterward, there will be a Celebration of Life on Friday, May 15th, at Myrhum-Patten Funeral and Cremation Service in West Bend. Family and friends are invited to honor David’s memory and celebrate his remarkable life. All are warmly invited to share cherished memories and joyful stories, celebrating a remarkable life filled with laughter, generosity, and the many gifts David shared with everyone he met.

Visitation: Marilyn and Family will warmly greet family and friends at Myrhum-Patten Funeral and Cremation Service in West Bend from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Friday, May 15th, 2026. (1315 West Washington Street (Highway 33) West Bend, WI 53095)

Celebration of Life: The service will begin at 1:00pm. Friends and family are invited to share a brief story and laughter as we honor a life well lived. The event will be on Friday, May 15th, 2026, following the visitation.

With deepest gratitude, the family extends their heartfelt thanks to Heartland Hospice, whose gentle hands and compassionate spirits, especially those of nurses Karen and Tasha, brought comfort and grace during David’s final journey.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Midwest Dachshund Rescue. www.mwdr.org

Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with David’s arrangements. For additional information or to leave an online condolence on the tribute wall, please visit www.myrhum-patten.com.