David Frederick Dunekacke, a dedicated farmer and cattleman, passed away on December 18, 2025, at the Good Samaritan Society in Auburn, Nebraska, at the age of 86. Born on January 6, 1939, in Auburn, Nebraska, to Frederich Johann and Julia Wilhelmina Sophia (Oestmann) Dunekacke, David was a man whose love for the farm was matched only by his devotion to his family and friends — and maybe the appreciation he had for his wife’s cooking.

He graduated from Johnson High School in 1957, after attending Roosevelt Country School. Dave proudly served his country in the Army from May 17, 1962, to February 24, 1964, stationed in Hawaii. He was an active member of St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Johnson, where he served on the church council, as well as the American Legion Post #330.

On April 18, 1970, David married Carol Ann Reddish at her parents’ home in Lincoln, Nebraska. Together, they built a life on the farm that has been in his family for over 160 years. Dave’s career passion was his livestock. He took great pride in his cow herd and loved involving his grandkids on the farm.

Dave was preceded in death by his wife Carol, their infant son Steven, his parents Frederich and Julia, brother Paul, sister Jean and brother-in-law Charlie Tisdale, sister-in-law Jean Shipps, parents-in-law Donald and Bobette Reddish, and infant brother Kenneth.

He leaves behind a loving family, including daughters and sons-in-law Amy and Darren Oestmann of Johnson, and Anne and Tanner Parde of Odell. David loved being a grandpa to Julia (John) Lambert, Emily (Cameron) Ebbers, Alexia Brollini, David Parde, and Madeline Parde. He was also a proud great-grandfather to August and Findlay Lambert. He is remembered fondly by his sister Mary Ann (Dennis) Johnson of Maple Plain, MN, and brother Lee (Mary Lou) Dunekacke of Johnson, along with sister-in-law Karen Dunekacke of Fairbury. He is also remembered by seven nieces and nephews, 15 great-nieces and -nephews, and many other relatives and friends.

Dave loved baseball. He played Legion baseball and, later, town team baseball. He enjoyed bowling with his league in Tecumseh. He was an inventive welder with a knack for building technology to make his farm more efficient. He was a gifted storyteller who will be remembered for his endless entertaining tales and the laughter they brought his family and friends.

Dave’s legacy lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A funeral service for Dave was Saturday, December 27, 2025, at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Johnson. Pastor Kate Woolf officiated, and Phyllis Davis accompanied congregational hymns. Casket bearers were Cameron Ebbers, John Lambert, David Parde, Tom Dunkacke, Jeff Dunekacke, Mike Dunekacke, and KC Johnson. Lee Moerer, Kenny Rosenthal, and Duane Palmer were honorary bearers. Burial followed in St. Matthew Lutheran Cemetery.

Hemmingsen Funeral Home was entrusted with services.