David “Dave” Krafka, 62

David “Dave” Krafka, 62, of Dysart, passed away peacefully at home on February 27, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer. David was born on February 6, 1961, in Vinton, IA, to Robert and Arlene (Snyder) Krafka. He grew up on their family farm west of Dysart. David graduated from Dysart Geneseo High School in 1979 and then attended Hawkeye Institute of Technology, studying Diesel Mechanics.

David made his home in beloved small-town Dysart all his adult life. He was united in marriage to Susan Schaefer on August 22, 1981. They later divorced. From this union came two children, Emily and Shane. Even though Dave & Sue were no longer married, they both worked together to raise their children.

David took pride in any employment he had. Especially, the short time he spent farming with his father. He most recently was employed as a truck driver for Aspro, Inc. in Waterloo until he was unfortunately no longer able to work. Family was always at the heart of David’s life. He thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his family. He was a loving and proud father. David’s most special treasures were his 6 grandchildren.

David was an Iowa Hawkeye Wrestling fan and lover of all things racing.

David is survived by his children: Emily (Ross) Stalzer, of Haverhill, and MSgt Shane (Bailey) Krafka, of Osan AB, South Korea. Grandchildren: Ben Krafka, of Melbourne; Lane Stalzer & Kelby Stalzer, of Haverhill; Hadley Krafka, Fynn Krafka & Langstyn Krafka, of Osan AB, South Korea. His siblings Joan (Joseph) Meany, Daniel Krafka and Craig (Andrea) Krafka along with 7 nieces and nephews. Uncle Richard Krafka and Aunt L. Alverna Robertson.

David is preceded in death by his parents, aunts Arlene (Krafka) Palmer and Janet (Krafka) Messer-Sawyer and a sister-in-law Peggy (McKenna) Krafka.

Son of a Farmer, #24 Forever