David Frederick Werner, a man whose life was a radiant expression of his love for Jesus, an embodiment of joy, and a source of love for all who knew him, unexpectedly passed away on May 18, 2023, following a routine surgery. He was 78 years old.
Our hearts are heavy with grief, but that grief is marked with peace because Dave made the transformative decision to give his life to Jesus Christ on February 11, 1970. That pivotal day shaped the remainder of his life. Dave's unwavering faith radiated through his words and deeds, and left an indelible mark on the hearts and lives of those he encountered. A person could not be in his presence without knowing they were loved or without experiencing the love of God in a tangible way.
After graduating from Seymour Union High School in 1963, Dave enlisted in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War and served his country with honor as a jet engine technician. Returning from service, he reconnected with his high-school sweetheart, Maxine Loritz, and married her in 1968. Together, they had three children and shared a love that spanned 42 beautiful years until Maxine's passing in January 2010. Their union was a testament to commitment and shared faith.
Throughout his life, Dave pursued various careers, finding joy in connecting with others. He also served as an associate pastor at Voice of Faith Fellowship in Green Bay.
In 2016, Dave found love once again when he met Kathy Boncher. Their shared devotion to Jesus fostered a fast and deep connection, and they embarked on a journey of service and ministry together when they married several months later. Dave and Kathy's partnership was a beacon of hope, touching the lives of many and exemplifying the beautiful power of Jesus and His perfect plan.
Dave will be deeply missed by his wife, Kathy; children: Stacey (Sheila) Werner, Vicky (Korey) Heimke, and Jodie (Roger) Polifka, who were blessed to have him as their father. In addition, he will be lovingly remembered by his step-daughters, Pamela (Greg) Tice, Jennifer Akre, and Kari (Jacob) Noll and his church family at Visible Church. David's heart overflowed with love for his grandchildren, and he leaves behind a beautiful legacy for Maximas, Philip, Mason, Shawna, Marcel, Joey (Cheyenne), Micah, Bethany, Danielle, Lauren, Caeleb, Ezra, Elias, Henry, and Jeremiah. He is further survived by David's sisters, Millie, Judy and Carol; Maxine's siblings, Loradon (Calvin) Fischer and Dennis Loritz; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
David was preceded in death by his late wife, Maxine (Loritz) Werner, his parents, Fred and Lucille Werner, his brother, Darrell, and his sister, Shirley.
Visitation will be held at Cup O' Joy at 525 N. Taylor St., Green Bay, WI, Tuesday, May 30, 2023 from 1 to 4 PM. A funeral service will follow at 4 PM with Pastor Ben Lamb officiating and full military honors.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a memorial fund established in Dave's name for Grace Christian Academy or Cup O' Joy.
David's family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Bellin Cardiology Associates for their compassion, care and support.