David Wallace Machesky

GILE, Wis. - David Wallace Machesky, age 86, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 20, 2024, at Aspirus Ironwood Hospital, with his children at his side.

David was born in Ironwood, Michigan, on Jan. 18, 1938, to Joseph and Adela Machesky. He was one of eight children, including his brothers, John, Red (Aloysius), Lawrence and Edward, and sisters, Nada, Dorothy and Regina. They are all now joined together in Heaven for one fantastic Machesky reunion.

David joined the U.S. Marine Corps right after graduating from J.E. Murphy High School in Hurley in 1956, and was honorably discharged in 1958. David began employment at Standard Oil in Oakland, California, after his discharge.

David married Sandra Kuhn on Feb. 7, 1959, and they were happily married for 65 years, renewing their wedding vows this year. She survives. They have three children, Cynthia (James) Simmons, Ironwood, Deborah (Stephen, deceased) Harrell, Corolla, North Carolina, and Jerome (Roberta) Machesky, Aitkin, Minnesota. They enjoyed five grandchildren, James Simmons (Samantha), Alan Simmons (Breanna Falk), Christine Pion (Dominic), Danielle Machesky (Allen Little) and Joseph Harrell (Samantha Schamel). They also have one great-grandchild, Micah Simmons. They enjoyed raising their children, providing them with phenomenal traveling experiences and then watching each of them enjoy their own retirements. They especially found pleasure raising their cockatiels, Jack and Jill, and their special grand-dog, Ellie Mae.

David returned to Wisconsin in 1964, and began working for Lunda Construction Company constructing bridges in various locations throughout Wisconsin. He semi-retired after returning to Gile in 1977, and kept busy driving school bus and working on various construction and remodeling projects until 2003.

David and Sandy enjoyed their retirement by snow-birding to Yuma, Arizona, every year until 2020. They enjoyed cruises and traveling around the United States and the world. He especially enjoyed camping, hunting and fishing with family and friends.

David's family would like to sincerely thank the Aspirus Ironwood Infusion Center staff for all their care given to him over the past couple of years. His last moments of his life at the hospital were supported by amazing staff members and we all appreciate each person that participated in his care.

At David's request, cremation has taken place.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, Michigan, is assisting the family with arrangements. To send online condolences or to share a memory, please go to lakesidememorialchapel.com.