David Alan Hemmelgarn

David Alan Hemmelgarn
October 25, 1955 – April 25, 2026

David “Dave” Hemmelgarn passed into the loving arms of Jesus after courageously fighting to recover from heart surgery. He will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.

Dave was a devoted husband of 50 years, a proud dad, and an incredibly loving Papa. He was the best “Daddy-O” to his three strong, beautiful daughters. His sons-in-law quickly became his own, and he loved razzing them.

Dave and Jan built an incredible family that has been their pride and joy. Dave especially loved time at their cabin in Aitkin, where the best memories were made. But it was clear that being a Papa was his favorite role of all. Dave was his grandchildren’s biggest cheerleader, whether at their sporting events or simply spending time together. His favorite motto for them was, “Go cause trouble!” With them, he was truly a kid at heart. 

Dave owned Hemmelgarn Carpentry and was a talented carpenter throughout his life. He took a lot of pride in his work and was always the first to show up and lend a hand, especially when it came to his daughters’ projects.

Dave had a special way of making everyone feel welcome, and his bright smile will be remembered by all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Janice; daughters, Jill (John), Sarah (Nick), and Angela (Clayton); grandchildren, Ella, Maiya, Jack, Millie, and Mabel; brothers, John, Matt, Mike (Barb), and Gary (Donna); in-laws, Carol, Mary, Linda, John (Sheryl), Yvonne (Jim), Mike (Angela), Polly (Jim), and Greg (Lori); along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis (Frank) and Violet (Betty) Hemmelgarn of Clear Lake, Minnesota; nephew, Danny; sister-in-law, Dolores; father and mother-in-law, Leonard and Olivia Gohman; brothers-in-law, Bill, Gary, and Lance; and nephew, Ryan.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 14 at Riverside Church – Big Lake Campus. The service will be followed by an open house with food, fellowship, and time to share fond memories. 

Riverside Church - Big Lake Campus, 20314 Co Rd 14, Big Lake, MN 55309. 

In lieu of flowers and in honor of Dave, please consider a contribution toward planting trees at the family cabin, creating a living tribute that will grow for years to come. (Donations may be made directly to Dave's family)

A special thanks to the North Memorial Robbinsdale ICU team on 4SW for caring for Dave for 40 days and 40 nights. We witnessed their sincere and compassionate care for him every step of the way.