David T. Pfaffenroth

David T. Pfaffenroth left this earth peacefully on Jan. 30, 2025, with his beloved wife of 48 years, Diane, by his side.

David was born on June 17, 1942, in Oshkosh, Wis., to Melvin and Jane Pfaffenroth.

A quiet and humble man, David lived a life of service to others. At age 18, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served for four years, including as a radio operator during the Vietnam War.

After the military, David completed a bachelor’s degree in social welfare from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

In 1976, he married Diane Kaul, and they enjoyed many road trips out West together until raising their four children in Grafton.

David worked night shifts at Milwaukee Container Plant before choosing to become a stay-at-home dad. He was a dedicated volunteer with Ozaukee County 4-H, Big Brothers Big Sisters, St. Paul Lutheran School and Grafton High School.

David enjoyed working in his yard and caring for animals, but his greatest joy in life were his children and grandchildren. His children remember him as a loving and supportive father with a remarkable sense of humor and wit. David’s life mission was to ensure his children received opportunities that he did not. He encouraged and supported them endlessly through education, extracurricular activities and travel. He was so proud of them for their hard work and accomplishments.

David is survived by his wife Diane; his four children, Jake (Annie), Lucas (Jenny), Molly and Lauren Gillis (Patrick); his grandchildren Eden, Hadley, Callahan and soon-to-arrive Jameson David; his mother-in-law Arline Kaul; nephew Christopher Pfaffenroth; and many additional beloved relatives and friends.

David was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Mike and cherished pets over the years Mika, Larry, Marshmallow and Teddy.

David’s family would like to thank Lumia Mequon, Brighton Hospice and his treasured caregivers and healthcare providers for their generous love and care.

A memorial service for David will take place at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025, at Mueller Funeral Home & Crematory, 979 N. Green Bay Rd. in Grafton. Visitation will take place at the funeral home at 4 p.m. and continue until the service begins.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Ozaukee County 4-H Foundation and the Grafton Community Scholarship Fund are appreciated.

For online condolences, please visit www.muellerfuneralhome.com.