David Lee Kowenstrot

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of David Lee Kowenstrot on Friday, September 12, 2025 in Arbor Vitae, at the young age of 78.

Dave was born in Milwaukee in 1947 and grew up with his parents Howard and Martha Kowenstrot and sister Kitty in Menomonee Falls. After high school, he enlisted in the Army in 1966 to serve his country. He served as a senior welder in Vietnam (67-68) earning the rank of E5 and a Bronze Star. Dave then worked for Mueller Pipeline and was owner operator of Dave’s Certified Welding in Woodruff. He retired as a leadman welder with Wisconsin Public Service of Green Bay after 25 years while living in Oconto Falls. After retirement, he moved to Arbor Vitae and spent the last years on projects and managing their vacation rental, D2cabin. He took advantage of life in the Northwoods and enjoyed hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, biking, and traveling.

Dave’s parents and one grandson (Austin) preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife Deborah (Radspinner Griepentrog) of 28 amazing years. Also missing his kindness and guidance are his children: Eric (Brenda) Kowenstrot of Oshkosh, Ann Kowenstrot of Oak Creek, Jason Kowenstrot (fiance’ Madia Ison) of Channing, Mich., and Drew Griepentrog of Republic, Mich. In addition to that crew, he leaves behind his sister Kitty (Chuck) Burczyk of Menomonee Falls. Grandkids include: Caitlin Kowenstrot (fiance’ Cameron Bonvini) of Woodruff, Zachary (Ally) Seidl of Menasha, Jesse Biddle of Anchorage, Alaska, Max Keating of Pittsburgh, Kaya Biddle of Pullman, Wash., Ella Griepentrog of Pulaski, Leif Griepentrog of Republic, Mich., Emrik Griepentrog of Republic, Mich., brother-in-law Rich Ballard of Oronoco, Minn., sister-in-law Patty (Mike) Lanko of Pewaukee, great-grandkids, nieces, and nephews.

His kindness and willingness to help will be missed by all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be held Wednesday, Oct. 15 at Nimsgern Funeral, 1025 Margaret St., Woodruff, from 4 to 7 p.m. with an honor guard presentation at 5 p.m.

A celebration of life will also be held on Friday, Oct. 24 at Shepherd of the Hills Church, N36 W24130 Pewaukee Road (Hwy 164), Pewaukee. Visitation from 1 to 3 p.m., service at 3 p.m. and fellowship thereafter.

Online condolences may be shared at nimsgernfuneral.com. Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family.