David Ellis Willmarth

David Ellis Willmarth, age 85, died Feb. 26, 2023, in Cottage Grove, MN. A man of few words and deep kindness, Dave was beloved by his family and many friends.

He is survived by Sandy, his wife of 57 years; sons, Chad (Janet), Quinn (Cindy), and Todd (Holly); his grandchildren; and siblings, Robert, of Rochester, MN, Rita Kane, of Minneapolis, MN, and Donald, of Huntsville, AL. Preceded in death by parents, Hugh and Dorothy; and sister, Darla Moore.

He grew up in Spring Valley, MN, served in the U.S. Army and worked at Univac, 3M, Control Data and Imation. A longtime resident of Cottage Grove, he kept bees, sold honey at farmers markets, and served at All Saints Lutheran Church. He loved camping, canoeing, hiking, hunting, and traveling; in retirement he became an avid downhill skier. He pinched pennies, collected facts, tended plants, and enjoyed ice cream at every opportunity. His greatest love was family, especially his grandchildren. Despite his declining health, he knew his loved ones until his final days, and they are most grateful.

Celebration of Life 11 AM with visitation beginning at 10 AM, Saturday, Mar. 4, 2023 at All Saints Lutheran Church, 8100 Belden Blvd., Cottage Grove, MN 55016. Memorials preferred to All Saints Lutheran Church and/or Believet Canine Service Partners (believet.org).

LIVESTREAM INFORMATION:  For those who would like to participate in David's service via livestream, you can watch the service on Saturday, March 4, 2023 at 11:00 AM (CT).  It can be viewed by scrolling to the bottom of this page, and "CLICK PLAY" to begin.  Please leave a message of support on our Tribute Wall to let the family know you were able to watch the service.  If you are having troubles with the Livestream, the service will be available to watch later in the day.