David G. Bockelmann, son of Henry D. and Leta (Bargenquast) Bockelmann, was born on November 9, 1944 at the family farm near Smithland, Iowa. He entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, February 11, 2014 at Burgess Health Center in Onawa, Iowa at the age of 69.
David was raised on the family farm near Smithland. He attended country school then Smithland School and was a member of the first graduating class of Westwood Community School in 1962.
On June 2, 1962, David was united in marriage to Lois Marian Meyer in Climbing Hill, Iowa. To this union three children were born: Lowell, Lonnie and Michele. David and Lois made their home on the family farm near Oto, Iowa. Lois passed away on September 6, 1996. David was a lifelong farmer and retired in the fall of 2013.
David enjoyed farming, traveling, playing cards and watching baseball. For many years, David was a member of the Smithland fast pitch softball team. Most of all, he enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s events and spending time with family. He was a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Climbing Hill and had been the treasurer for many, many years.
David is survived by his children: Lonnie (Lisa) Bockelmann of Hornick, IA and Michele (Jesse) Kirkendall of Smithland, IA; daughter-in-law, Lynne Bockelmann of Hinton, IA; seven grandchildren: Jamie, Brad (Melinda), Justin (Jessica), Jacob, Breea, Casey and Colton; five great grandchildren: Caleb, Natalie, Cara, A.J. and Benjamin; one sister, Deloris Nitzschke of Lawton, IA; special friend, Karolyn Brockman; nieces; nephews; other relatives and many friends.
David was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lois; one son, Lowell; two brothers: Ronald and Norman; and one sister, Pauline.