David D. Skemp

David Skemp

11/10/1937 – 02/26/21

Dave passed away unexpectedly February 26, 2021 in his home, surrounded by family. He was born November 10, 1937 in La Crosse, WI, the son of Dr. Frederick and Florence (Lenz) Skemp. He was raised in Fountain City, and then met the love of his life, Joan (White). They started their family life in Davenport Iowa, where Dave was a teacher and coach. The family relocated to Prairie du Chien in 1969, and continued with the PdC School District as teacher and coach, where he and Joan became close friends with Jack and Glee Mulrooney. Many afternoons were spent with their growing families on the river, or playing cards.

In 1970 he established Coaches Family Restaurant, originally with partner Jerry Gilbertson and later on his own. In 1992 he opened Huckleberry’s. Between his teaching, coaching, and staffing the two restaurants, Dave touched the lives of a vast part of the PdC community and surrounding areas. He was a member of the PdC Rotary Club for many years, and supported many community events and clubs.

In later years Dave developed a love of carving, quickly filling his home and basement with his creations. He and Joan traveled extensively, and saw 48 of the United States. Many hours, of course, were spent attending the many sporting games of his grandchildren. He was a constant presence, and coached and advised the kids as well.

Dave is survived by his wife of 61 years, Joan, sisters and brothers Rita Grennison, Dr. Frederick (Jean) Skemp, Susan (Carlos) Alvarez, George (Nancy) Skemp, Tony (Ann) Skemp, Jean Anne Monsoor, Mary (Tom) Stuber, and Ben (Jim) Skemp; brother in law, Bill (Julie) White; children Andy (Bird) Skemp, Ed Skemp, Amy (Steve) Pellock, Ann (John) Todoroki, Chip (Roxanne) Skemp, and Sarah (Shane) Wilborn; Grandchildren Lacey Kapinus, Sam Pellock, Bryce (Lena) Pellock, Alex Todoroki, Jacob Todoroki, Alanna (Dustin) McShane, Tony (Katie) Skemp, Olivia (Tim Yager) Skemp, Maria Skemp, Riley Wilborn, Abbey Wilborn, David Wilborn, and great grandchildren Layla, Madden, and Mason Virtue, Aubrey and Jonathan Pellock, Gracelynn and Decklin McShane, and Harper Jo Skemp.

Dave is preceded in death by his parents Dr. Frederick and Florence Skemp, his brother Archie Skemp, grandson Steven, and Maggie the "BEST DOG EVER".

“...the popcorn is popped, the cards are on the table. Maggie and I will be waiting for you...”

At Dave's request, there will only be a celebration of life with family.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Mississippi River Sculpture Park.

http://www.statuepark.org/2014/02/make-donation.html####. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of David D. Skemp, please visit our floral store.