David Edward McKenzie

MADISON/COTTAGE GROVE- David E. McKenzie passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2016. He was born in Rhinelander on Feb. 6, 1948, the first born son of Derald and Phyllis McKenzie. "It could be worse," were words he lived by through all the difficult and wonderful, beautiful and sad— "It could always be worse." The true-to-the-core words of a fantastically perseverant father, loving husband and pillar to his friends and beloved family. For David Edward McKenzie, each day was a celebration, no matter how simple. Whether it was a Wisconsin Badger win, a gorgeous day of sunshine, or simply the fact that he was not living in the cold-weather climate of Siberia, it was worth a cheer, and almost infinitely, a smile. A man with this much spirit was sure to resonate with any one stranger that crossed his path. To many of us, he was more than just one of the people in our lives, he was a bit of a legend. Dave is survived by his wife, Lynn Rulien McKenzie; his three children, Bryan (Becky) McKenzie, Philip McKenzie, and Danielle (Charlie) McKenzie Taylor; his mother, Phyllis Haack of Madison; his sisters, Sara (Mitch) L'Herault and Shelley (Sam) White; his brothers, Bill (Linda) McKenzie and Mike (Angela) McKenzie; his granddaughter, Faith Rieder; as well as his extended family. Dave will also be remembered by his innumerable friends from all over the world. In lieu of flowers, please provide a donation to Wisconsin Public Television or Agrace HospiceCare. We would like to offer a special thanks to Agrace HospiceCare for their essential care and support. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608)221-5420