David L. Henrickson, 82, of Dodge, died Monday, June 10, 2024 at Dunklau Gardens in Fremont.  Funeral Mass will be 10:00am on Saturday, June 15 at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Dodge.  Burial will be at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery with lunch following at the church hall.  Visitation will be Friday from 5:00pm to 7:00pm with a Vigil Service at 7:00pm at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church.  In lieu of flowers and plants, memorials may be made to the family for future designation.  Arrangements by Stokely Funeral Home.

Dave Leroy Henrickson was born on June 22, 1941, in Carroll to Jesse and Lois (Bailey) Henrickson. His early years were spent in Carroll until the family relocated to Dodge, where his father began his long career at the local lumber yard.  Dave graduated from Dodge High School in 1958. On June 15, 1960, he married Mary “Susie” Sass. Together, they built a life in Dodge, where Dave owned and operated Dodge Lumber, Inc. with his father and brother. His work ethic extended beyond the lumber industry, as he sold Pioneer Seed for an impressive 40 years, with his seed reaching fields across a 400 square mile area.

In addition to his business endeavors, Dave served as a certified crop advisor, sold crop insurance, and drove a school bus for over 20 years.  His dedication to public service was further exemplified by his 45-year tenure with Dodge Fire and Rescue, where he was a charter member of Dodge Rescue. Dave’s leadership also led him to serve as the Mayor of Dodge for six years, and he was a vital member of the Dodge Chamber of Commerce.

After the passing of his first wife, Susie, Dave found love again and married Holly (Dahl) Wennstedt on March 21, 2003. Together, they shared many adventures and travels, exploring destinations such as Costa Rica, the Caribbean, Hawaii, Mexico, and various parts of the Northeast and Southwest United States.

Dave’s interests were as diverse as his contributions to the community. He enjoyed camping, bowling, fishing, and playing cards. He was passionate about teaching, dedicating time to the Junior Fire Patrol. Dave had a special place in his heart for his beloved cats and was proud of being a cancer survivor.

Dave is survived by his wife Holly and his children and their families:

• Daughter, Lori of Dodge
• Son, Daniel (Tena) of Dodge – Jayson, Shayna, and Elijah
• Daughter, Peggy (Jerry) Franke of Fremont – Adam, Jacob, and Megan
• Son, Robert (Pat) of Lincoln – Jess, Cory, Aaron, and Jared
• Son, Ryan (Brienna) Zakovec of Morse Bluff – Haley and Dustin
• Daughter-in-law, Brook Zakovec of Morse Bluff – Ashtynn, Kinsley, Grayden, and Barrett

5 great grandchildren; brother, Mike (Denice) of Fremont, many nieces and nephews and friends that were like family to Dave.  He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Susie in 1999; son, Brent Zakovec; and sisters, Linda (James) Bart and Sheryl (Norbert) Shulenberg.