David G. Herzer passed away peacefully at his home in Scottsdale AZ, on Friday February 10, 2023 at the age of 90. A wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.
He is survived by his loving wife, Vernelle “Nell”, two daughters, Susann Herzer and Carol (Rick) Fronberry, and Nell’s children Kris (Leroy) Kukowski, Kevin Schott and Darin (Bruce) Sales. Their combined families leave 8 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren to mourn his loss.
Preceded in death by his first wife, Ann G. Carney, his parents David O. & Laura E. Herzer, and his sister and brother-in-law Patricia A. and Gordon M. Ihbe. Born in Milwaukee and raised in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, David graduated in finance from the University of Wisconsin Madison. He was a proud Badger and member of Delta Upsilon Fraternity. He was a part of the ROTC program on campus which ordered him to Munich Germany after graduation and was assigned to the Military Police.
While there, he was put in charge of civilian evacuation drills which entailed him to drive through the countryside on a monthly basis, checking out different safe passages to lead an auto caravan if need be. Once a month his simulation drills had him drive all the way to Spain. It was because of those road trips that he acquired his love for travel. And travel he did, for the rest of his days.
When he returned to the States he went to work for Marine Bank, and upon leaving, started Midland National Bank with two other partners in May of 1965. Midland grew to be the 4th largest bank in Wisconsin, which he was very proud of. In 1977, as acting President, he sold Midland to First Bank System, moving to Minneapolis, where he retired at the age of 55.
Life went on for the next 35 years filled with different board positions, treasurer appointments, volunteering, boating escapades, endless travel and eating adventures, and renewal of his faith.
He will be remembered as a wonderful cook and wine aficionado, an avid reader, a deal maker, an organizer and analyzer, a mentor and teacher. He also loved a good debate and that’s not debatable.
One might describe him as a fellow well met. You always knew when he was in the room with his large smile, decorative ties, and hardy handshake. He was an advocate of a good moral code and up bringing, which he shared with everyone, and a strong faith to guide him along the way. He will be deeply missed by so many.
The family would like to thank his many doctors and caregivers at Dignity Cancer Center.
In Lieu of flowers all donations will be given to the Music Ministry Department at the Valley Presbyterian Church.
Visitation will be held at the Funeral Home on Friday February 24th between 2-4 pm and on Saturday February 25th 10-11am.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at Valley Presbyterian Church, 6947 E McDonald Dr., Paradise Valley, AZ 85253, on Saturday, February 25, 2023 at 2:00pm.