David W. Wenk, age 73, of New Ulm, passed away on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at Mayo Hospital in Mankato, with his family by his side.

Dave is survived by his wife of 50 years, Jean Wenk of New Ulm; his sons, Jason Wenk of Mankato, Patrick Wenk (Angel) of Plymouth, and Matthew Wenk (Jamie) of New Ulm; his grandchildren, Graysen, Noah, Layke, Willow, and Autumn; his mother, Rosemary Wenk of Albuquerque, New Mexico; his sister, Kathy Butler (Dwight) of Granbury, Texas; his brothers, Steve Wenk (Cheri) and Jerry Wenk (Connie), both of Albuquerque, New Mexico; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, George Wenk.

David "Dave" Wayne Wenk was born on May 26, 1953, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to George and Rosemary (Ritson) Wenk.

In 1975, Dave married the love of his life, Jean (Marti) Wenk, at Pahaska Tepee near Yellowstone National Park. Their love story began while spending summers in Yellowstone, where Dave worked as Head of Maintenance for six summers and Jean worked in the gift shop. Together they built a life centered on family, friendship, hard work, and service to others.

Throughout his career, Dave started as head of maintenance and retired as a certified healthcare facility manager. He earned numerous in-house safety awards and recognitions for his dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence. Dave was also a licensed Maintenance Electrician, Class B and Class C Boiler Operator, known for his expertise, dependability, and strong work ethic.

Dave was an avid volunteer who never turned down an opportunity to help someone in need. Whether assisting a friend, neighbor, family member, or community organization, he was always willing to lend a hand. A talented do-it-yourselfer and Silversmith, Dave enjoyed fixing, building, creating, and improving things, and there was rarely a project he couldn't tackle. He took pride in crafting unique pieces of jewelry, sharing his creativity and craftsmanship with family and friends.

Outside of work, Dave embraced life with enthusiasm and a sense of adventure. He loved riding four-wheelers, taking fishing trips with friends, sitting around a fire by the Minnesota River, riding his bike, and listening to live music. More than anything, he cherished time spent with his family and friends. Dave was always up for a good time, had a wonderful sense of humor, and never met a stranger. His kindness, generosity, and genuine interest in others earned him many lifelong friendships.

Dave will be remembered for his warm heart, helping hands, unwavering devotion to his family, and his ability to make everyone feel welcome. His legacy of service, friendship, and love will live on in all who knew him and were fortunate enough to call him husband, father, grandfather, in-law, son, brother, and friend.

A celebration of life will be held in the lower taproom at Schells on July 10th from 5-8pm. All are welcome.

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