David Warke Obituary

David Allan Warke, age 86, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2025, at St. John's Lutheran Community- The Woodlands, surrounded by his family.

A funeral service honoring both David and Karen Warke will be held at 10:00AM on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Richland, with a visitation beginning one hour prior. Interment will be held at St. Olaf Cemetery in New Richland. The service will be livestreamed.

David was born on January 26, 1939, in Manchester, Minnesota, to Clayton and Eileen (Hallum) Warke. He was baptized and confirmed at West Freeborn Church, where his faith began to shape his kind and caring spirit. David attended Freeborn School and graduated from New Richland-Hartland High School in 1956. On October 31, 1957, he married his soulmate and best friend, Karen (Tollefson) Warke, embarking on a lifelong adventure filled with love and companionship. David proudly served in the Army from 1961 to 1967, dedicating his life to his country and community. 

A hardworking truck driver, David worked for Tipton Trucking and Warren Transport before starting his own company, DKW Transport, in 1989. His bond with Karen deepened as they navigated both life and the open road together. Sharing the thrill of trucking, Karen obtained her CDL and even took her road test with the Huntting Elevator pickup and trailer, a testament to their enduring partnership. They cherished special moments playing cards, golfing, and hosting lively family gatherings, especially Tollefson Christmases that brought joy to all. 

David had a remarkable gift for connecting with people of all ages, always taking a genuine interest in others and their well-being. He cherished trips to Mexico, Arizona, and Florida with close friends who held a special place in his heart.

Those left to cherish David’s memory include his sister, Janice Perkins, of Albert Lea; brothers-in-law, Larry (Rosanne) Tollefson, of Aitkin, and Leland (Susan) Tollefson, of Rochester; sister-in-law, Dorothy Tollefson, of New Richland; as well as many special nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews, and numerous friends who will forever hold his memory in their hearts. In addition to his parents, Clayton and Eileen Warke, David was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Karen Warke; a sister, Janet Loken; and a brother-in-law, Roger Loken. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. John's and St. Croix Hospice for the compassionate care provided to David.

Memorial donations preferred to the New Richland Area Foundation, 501 Elm Ave. E., Waseca, MN 56093.

The livestream link below is a complimentary service provided by Bonnerup Funeral & Cremation Services. Unforeseen technical, internet, facility, and/or acoustical circumstances may produce a diminished end product. Please note, if the livestream does not appear, we are attempting to record and publish the service for later viewing.