David Wichert

David Donald Wichert, 90, a resident of Woodland Terrace in Bridgman, formerly of Bethany Beach and Chicago, passed away on Saturday, October 17, 2009 at Jordan’s Life Care Center, Bridgman with his family at his side.

A celebration service will be held 11 AM Saturday, October 31, at Sawyer Highlands Church with Rev. Jeff Dryden officiating. Friends may meet with the family at church following the service during a time of refreshments. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be given to Sawyer Highlands Church or Safeplace, a ministry of Edgewater Baptist Church, Chicago.

David was born January 28, 1919 in Chicago the son of the late Arthur and Margaret (Ruf) Wichert. He lived life with gusto – was a Boy Scout, swam on the Senn High School swim team, and was a welter weight Golden Gloves boxer. On June 6, 1940 he married the former Dagmar Ekstedt. He enlisted in the Marines during WWII, declining deferment as the father of two small children and served in the occupation army in Japan. Upon returning, he chose to boldly follow Christ, even at work as a photo engraver at RR Donnelly & Sons where he led a lunchtime Bible study group. He was a Sunday School teacher, boys’ club leader, usher, and deacon at Edgewater Baptist Church. David enjoyed golfing, sailing, bike riding, cross country skiing, and bowling. After “retiring” at the age of 63, he began a second career as caretaker at Bethany Beach, a job he relished. He was active at Sawyer Highlands Church and was a spiritual mentor to many. He loved his family and always gave thanks that they all cared for each other.

David is survived by his wife and “girlfriend” for over 70 years, Dagmar; children – Nancy (Gordon) Johnson of Grand Haven, Susan Keith of Rochester, New York, Linda (Ken) Kallberg of St. Joseph, and Donald (Lisa) Wichert of Madison, Wisconsin; grandchildren – Tim (Kris) Johnson, Elizabeth (Bill) Trapp, John (Seana) Johnson, Jenna Olson, Lars (Jill) Olson, Matt (Lauren) Johnson, and Laura Wichert; and great grandchildren – Kurt, Linnea, Erik, and Karl Johnson, Brett and Ashley Trapp, Annalise and Cody Olson, and Jess Johnson.

David was dearly loved, a friend to all, and will be greatly missed.

Memorial Service

Saturday October 31, 2009 , 11 AM at Sawyer Highlands Church