David Allen Hoernke

1952-2024

David Allen Hoernke, age 71, of Medford, passed away on Sunday, June 30, 2024, at Aspirus Medford Hospital. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. David was born on Dec. 1, 1952, the son of Lawrence “Jake” and Mae (Kaser) Hoernke in Marshfield. He attended St. Mary’s School and Colby High School. David married Debbie Hesgard and they later divorced. He married Karen Flink on Aug. 21, 1982, in Colby.

Dave was a cheesemaker at an early age at the family owned Colby Cheese Factory. He started working in the vats before he could walk. Dave was a state and federally licensed cheese grader. He had his cheesemaker’s license at age 13. After the factory closed, he worked for USDA Dairy Division. Dave retired in 2013. He also served as a member of the Army National Guard from 1971-84.

Dave played softball for the Uptown Bar tournament team where many good times, great stories and much beer was consumed. There were many wins along the way with a great bunch of friends. He bowled in men’s and mixed couple’s leagues in his younger years. Dave enjoyed racing anything with a motor and went fast, whether it be a stock car in the summer or a snowmobile in the winter. When he outgrew driving himself, he passed that love onto his sons with the family pulling truck, “Joyride.” Three generations were involved with Grandpa Dave on set-up; one of his sons in the driver’s seat and the grandsons running alongside the truck. Nothing made Dave happier than to spend the weekend with family and friends at the track.

Dave is survived by his loving wife, Karen; his three sons, Darrin (Lisa) of Colby, Derrick (Jennifer) of Amherst and Damien (Nicole) of Lake Hallie; grandchildren, Tyler (Nikki), Jake (Shelby), Austin (Jackie), Ashlyn and Brielle, Jake (Manda), Jeremy (Rachel), Joel, Dustin, Emma and Anna. He is further survived by his sister, Gloria (Mark) Carpenter of Gilman; a brother, Dale Hoernke of Colby; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Ronald; and a sister, Beverly.

Family and friends may express condolences online at www.maurinaschilling.com.

Paid Obituary 155531