David M. Zaleski

David M. Zaleski

July 17, 1973 - September 03, 2024

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Obituary

MIDDLETON - David M. Zaleski passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024. David was a loving son, brother, friend, and "uncle" to many.


Our David was one of a kind. He received a degree in German from St. Olaf College. After college, he enjoyed living abroad and learning about other cultures. He never met a stranger. He was able to talk to anyone and make friends wherever he went. When he returned from living abroad, he earned his master’s degree in architectural history from Savannah College of Art and Design. Following living in Savannah, he returned to Wisconsin where he spent time in Racine. After several years in Racine, he found himself in Orlando for a few years and then back in Wisconsin where he was currently residing.


David was a person of many talents He was an excellent swimmer, writer, artist, and he played the piano and trumpet. He was a voracious reader of European history and architecture.


His wonderful sense of humor will be missed the most. David was quick witted, and always could make his family and friends laugh. He is survived by his loving parents, Michael and Sue (Householder) Zaleski of Middleton, Wis.; his sister, Sara Zaleski of Denver; uncles and aunts, Steve (Judy) Householder of Poynette, Wis., Jim (Bev) Zaleski of Montecito, Calif., Harold Meier of Sun Prairie, Wis., and Liz Harp of McFarland, Wis.; and many cousins and friends.


We know that David is now at peace. While he will be missed unbelievably, he is running free with his grandparents, aunts and uncles, friends, and our beloved dogs. Losing him is difficult, but knowing that he can finally rest helps to put our hearts at ease.


David did not wish to have a service. Instead, please toast him for being a fantastic person.


We have always loved you, Dave, and always will. Please watch over us. We will see you again one day.


Mom, Dad, and Sara


Any contributions may be made in his name to Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Highway M, Middleton, WI 53562 or National Alliance on Mental Health (donate.nami.org).


Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.


Gunderson West

Funeral & Cremation Care

7435 University Ave.

(608) 831-6761


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David
S
Sara
Other •
I love and miss you so much.
SM
Sheila Matusiewicz
Other •
I am so terribly sorry for your loss and my heart goes out to your family. Dave and I were friends in high school, but lost touch soon after. We had some really fun times together and I remember going to some parties, a trip to six flags, sharing a boat on senior trip, and visiting him when he was at St. Olaf College. He was a reliable friend who never changed and was kind to everyone. I always thought we would get together again and talk about old times. I will always remember him and miss him.
H
Heather
Other •
Dave, You were my best friend, my rock, and an eternal light in my life - a once-in-a-lifetime friend. The memories of our last 20 years continue to flood through my memory. You also became a part of my family and will be so very missed by them, especially by London, your Butternut Zipper. I know you are at peace, but not having you here has left such a gaping hole in my and all of our hearts. Nobody could make me laugh like you could. Our memories together are gold. I will love you forever. - Heather
KD
Kristina Merchant Dreis
Other •
Dave and I went to College together. When he was living in Germany he came to visit me in Switzerland. He was loved and will be missed.
GD
Gib & Gail Docken
Other •
You were a very special person
DH
Diana (Dee) Hanson
Other •
Mike, Sue & SaraMy deepest condolences for your loss. Dee Hanson

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