David John Fehr

BLACK EARTH/CROSS PLAINS-David Fehr died unexpectedly at home in Black Earth on Saturday, March 16, 2019. Dave was born July 8, 1942 in Chicago, Ill., to parents Ardath (Streed) and Alfred Fehr. In August 1965 Dave married Roberta Reich. They raised their family in Cross Plains, Wis. Dave graduated from the University of Illinois in 1966 with a M.S. in Civil Engineering. With degree in hand, he was off to Wisconsin to build roads and bridges for the DOT. It was a short career of about 2 years when he was offered a position in the newly organized computer section of the Division of Motor Vehicles. That's where he found his niche, writing programs and systems for the DMV and the engineers building those roads and bridges. His third career choice came in the late 1980s when he and Bobbie were building an addition to their home. They decided a stained glass window would look nice in this new room. Dave, being handy, would build it and Bobbie would design it. What started as a hobby turned into a small business called Leaded Light Ltd. In 1991 Dave and Bobbie were the Commemorative artists for WHA-TV's Art and Antique Auction. Dave took that same skill set once he retired and worked part time for Denny Berkery's The Vinery Stained Glass Studio. It was his favorite job, repairing and constructing stained glass. He even learned to make and then teach glass bead making. Dave always enjoyed traveling. As a civil engineer student he traveled to England where he supervised the building of a railroad bridge. As a Dad to Cinnamon and Chris, he shared his love of adventure with white water canoeing in Wisconsin's rivers, camping and climbing waterfalls in Michigan's U.P. and hiking Minnesota's North Shore. Later in life it was using his Golden Passport to visit U.S. National parks on both sides of United States and places in the middle. Time eventually slowed him down and his world became smaller. When he was able to, he enjoyed getting together with friends and twice a year his grandgirls came up from Florida to show him how to do the floss, dab and stay thicc (or was it thiccc?) Dave is survived by his wife, Bobbie; daughter, Cinnamon (Ian) McGeehan; son, Christopher; grandgirls, Lily and Robin; and his half brother, step brother and step sister. Dave was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Richard; and the best cat there ever was, PC. A private memorial celebration will be held for family and friends at a later date. David was filled with the spirit of giving and if you wish to acknowledge that same spirit, donate to the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson West Funeral & Cremation Care 7435 University Avenue (608) 831-6761