David G. Anderson

David G. Anderson, 69, of Wausau, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2025, at Marshfield Clinic–Weston, surrounded by the family he so dearly loved. Born on August 11, 1956, to Carroll Ahlborn and Robert Anderson, Dave was a proud son of Hazelhurst. From his earliest days, he carried with him an unwavering love for his community, a zest for life, and a gift for connecting with people that only grew stronger with time. His life was one of service, friendship, laughter, and adventure — a life rich with stories, accomplishments, and memories that will be cherished by all who knew him.

A graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Superior in 1978, Dave earned a bachelor of arts degree in social studies and German. His career began as a German teacher at Lakeland Union High School, his alma mater in Minocqua. Even then, his leadership and sense of duty shine brightly — he was elected to the Oneida County Board of Supervisors while still teaching, later serving as Chairman for the Town of Hazelhurst. This early blending of education, leadership, and public service became the foundation of a career devoted to improving the lives of others.

Dave had a true passion for travel and a heart for adventure. One of his lifelong dreams was to visit all seven continents — he joyfully made it to six, with Antarctica already on the calendar for an upcoming trip. Over the years, he explored countless countries and cultures, always eager to learn, experience, and share. He delighted in bringing others along on his journeys, whether traveling side by side or sharing stories and photos on Facebook. More than anything, he wanted the people to share in “Seeing the World with Dave.”

Among his greatest joys was his lifelong involvement with Rotary. Joining in the 1990s, Dave became deeply devoted to the organization’s mission of “service above self.” He was a past district governor for Rotary District 6220 and, at the time of his passing, was a charter member and current president of the new Wausau After Hours Rotary Club — the first new Rotary Club in District 6220 in over a decade. Wherever his career took him, Rotary was at the center of his life. He held leadership roles in multiple clubs, chaired important committees, and poured his heart into projects both local and international. His commitment to service extended beyond titles; it was part of who he was. He was also a proud member of the Paul Harris Society and attended Rotary International conventions across the globe, forming friendships that transcended borders.

Professionally, Dave enjoyed a long and impactful career in public service and government. He retired in 2018 as the assistant deputy secretary at the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, but not before leaving his mark in countless roles. Over the years, he served as director of the governor’s northern office in Hayward, director of appointments for governor Tommy G. Thompson, policy advisor and assistant deputy secretary at the Department of Financial Institutions, and policy director for governor Scott McCallum. He also served as regional representative and deputy state director for U.S. senator Robert W. Kasten, Jr., and as district director forcongressmen Tom Petri (WI-6) and Sean Duffy (WI-7). After his time in state government, Dave continued his work as government relations director for Ruder Ware Law Firm in Wausau, later lending his expertise as chairman of the board of advisors for the Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy and Service (WIPPS), where he also served as a senior policy fellow. Through every position, Dave was admired for his knowledge, integrity, and ability to bring people together.

In addition to his roles in state and federal government, Dave served for many years as secretary for the Republican Party of Wisconsin. A highlight of his time with the party was representing the great state of Wisconsin as a delegate to multiple national conventions. He took great pride in his involvement in politics, embracing the many roles he held over the years and always focusing on bringing people together, building connections, and fostering collaboration.

Dave’s dedication to community service reached far beyond his professional and Rotary life. He gave generously of his time and leadership to many organizations, including the UW–Superior Alumni Association, UW–Superior Foundation, Wisconsin Historical Society Board of Curators, Circus World Museum Foundation, Lakeland High School District Foundation, Camp Five Museum Foundation, Boys and Girls Club of the Wausau Area, KidsVoting Marathon County/Wisconsin, Lakeland Care District, Wausau Area Taxpayers League, and most recently the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin. His service was never about recognition — it was about making a difference.

While his achievements were many, it was Dave’s spirit that touched people most deeply. He had a remarkable gift for conversation and connection. He could meet a stranger and, within minutes, leave as a friend. With his warmth, humor, and genuine interest in others, Dave made people feel valued and remembered. He thrived in social settings and loved nothing more than gatherings filled with laughter, friendship, and storytelling. One of his favorite traditions was the annual Beef-A-Rama weekend at Silver Lake Lodge, a celebration of camaraderie that he looked forward to every year.

Beyond his public life, Dave was a man of many passions. He loved Wisconsin history, movies, model trains, and genealogy — spending countless hours researching family history and sharing stories of generations past. His greatest joy, however, was his family. Married for 44 years to his beloved wife June, Dave was immensely proud of their two daughters, Jennifer and Stephanie, and the five grandchildren who were the light of his life. He loved making memories with them — whether through a circus outing, a train ride, or a family trip to a historical site. He passed down his love of learning, adventure, and fun, leaving behind a legacy of curiosity and love that will live on through them.

Dave is survived by his daughters, Jennifer Carlson (Tim) and Stephanie Jenson (Adam); and his five cherished grandchildren, Talon (13), Eleanor (10), Parker (8), Cam (5), and Presley (2). Spouse of 44 years, June Anderson; His dear sister, Norma Kuchler (Warren). He is also survived by his many nieces, nephews and cousins. Beyond family, Dave is remembered and deeply missed by the many he mentored, his colleagues, the volunteer organizations he poured his heart into, and countless friends whose lives were brighter because of him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Anderson and Carroll Ahlborn (Eddie); his sister, Dorothy Klemptner; and brothers, Harold (Bud), Norman, and Jerry Anderson.

A visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 3, at Bolger Funeral Home, 1212 First Avenue, Woodruff. A second visitation will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 4, at Calvary Lutheran Church, 8632 Highway 51, Minocqua, followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. Graveside burial at Lakeside Garden of Sleep will take place immediately after the service. To conclude our celebration of Dave’s life, family and friends are invited to a luncheon at Hazelhurst Town Hall, 7020 US-51, Hazelhurst, WI 54531.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family for a scholarship fund being established for Dave’s grandchildren — ensuring that his love of learning, service, and community continues for generations to come, visit everloved.com/life-of/david-g-anderson/.

Bolger Cremation & Funeral Services is assisting the family, www.bolgerfuneral.com.