David Colton

David Collin Colton, age 60, left this world on Tuesday, June 13th as peacefully as he lived. David was an incredible husband, father, brother, uncle, son, friend and confidante. David loved anything that allowed him to relish the beauty of nature. David was a devoted and loving husband to Mary Lou (Jochimsen) Colton. David brought joy and adventure into Mary Lou's life. Their two daughters, Claire (26), and Ellen (21), are blessed beyond words to have had him as a father. He shaped their lives totally and completely. Whenever and wherever his family needed him, he would be there instantly. The empty space they feel now will slowly be filled by gleaming memories of his unconditional love.

David was born on September 9th, 1956 to Carol and David Colton. His father introduced him to nature, while his mother taught him to love beyond measure. His grandparents, Hilton and Anne Gill, as well as his sisters, Lynda and Carrie (Isaacs) also filled his young life with happiness. He attended US Grant Elementary School where he and the principal became well acquainted. David created and cherished lifelong friendships. He used his grit and determination to exceed at football and tennis (and Liars Dice). He graduated from North High School in ‘75 and attended UW-Ashland. David explored work paths that interested him and learned as much as he could from each experience.

Mary Lou and David met in elementary school. They even dated briefly in High School and were brought back together in 1985. They married in 1989. After their children were born, David lost his parents. However, he felt continually blessed to have a close relationship with his in-laws, Dr. & Mrs. Earl and Marjory Jochimsen, throughout the remainder of his life. David also felt blessed to be an uncle to his sister Lynda's children, David, Dan and Jess. They hold treasured memories of their uncle close to their hearts. Whether it is listening to his stories, learning football drills, hunting and fishing, or being influence by his taste in music and his unique sense of humor. David played a pivotal role during their childhood. They counted on him for his imagination, sense of adventure, and wisdom and support as the closest male figure in their lives, after the loss of their father.

It was the highest priority for David to maintain his connections. Even across the country, he stayed close with his sister Carrie, her husband Scott and their children, Gregory and Madeline, as well as his brother and sister-in-law, Mark and Camille Jochimsen. His friendship with his brother and sister-in-law Paul and Lori Jochimsen, gave him continuous enjoyment, as did his relationship with their children, Cole, Duncan, Evan and Hope. Perhaps Duncan said it best: "He was much more than an uncle to me. He always brought such a joyous and high-spirited presence to every occasion. Such supportive and unconditional love poured from that man. Few people have both great insight and wisdom, and are able to instantly lighten you up. Strong in stature but gentle in heart, David always asked questions about your well-being, instead of your grades, job, etc. Someone who, if you needed help, would be the first to come to your aid." Needless to say, everyone David interacted with was made to feel that their connection was truly special to him, and it was. It gives his family great comfort picturing David walking along the beach with all the dogs he ever loved.

A celebration of David's life will take place on Wednesday, June 21st, at First Congregational Church UCC, 310 Bluff Avenue, Sheboygan, WI. Visitation will begin at 9 AM, the service begins at noon. A memorial fund will be established.

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