David Lakin

David James Lakin, age 71, passed away peacefully in the early morning of July 16, 2024. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, he leaves behind a legacy of kindness and service.

David, or Dave as he was most commonly called, was born on May 9th, 1953, to Edwin and Alvira Lakin in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Dave grew up in his early years enjoying time with his older brother, Gary. Upon graduating Goodrich High School, Dave married Veronica Lewis and had two children, David Russell and Heather Marie.

Dave dedicated a portion of his life to serving his country. He spent 8 years in the Navy, where he was known for his unwavering commitment, hard work, and camaraderie with his fellow servicemen. The Navy remained a pivotal part of his life well after being honorably discharged and up to the time of his death. The Navy flag was always the first thing he put up whenever he moved to a new home.

Following his Naval tour of service from 1972-1980, Dave and his family moved back to Wisconsin, where he continued to exhibit the same dedication and hard work as a Nuclear Safety Advisor at Point Beach Nuclear Power Plant. Dave stayed there until 1989 when he took an opportunity to move his family to Blair, Nebraska, taking on a leadership role at Omaha Public Power District for 18 years.

In 2003, in the second chapter of Dave’s life, he married Lynda (Grubaugh-McNulty), who would become his best friend, spouse, and partner. Dave and Lynda built a beautiful life together. They traveled abroad extensively as well as throughout the domestic US. They loved spending time with siblings and other family members whenever they could – casino time with brother Gary and Rosie; special holidays and personal events with Lynda’s siblings Don, Roger, Beth, and Kim, visiting the kids and their families – making and sharing a lifetime of laughter and memories with each and every one. Dave enjoyed his annual fishing trips with Lynda’s brothers and was set to go to Montana fishing with them two days before his passing. He had been packed four days earlier! Dave's love for his family was evident in everything he did, and his presence will be deeply missed.

Dave and Lynda thoroughly enjoyed hosting and visiting with Dave’s kids and their children, truly embracing the roles of grandparents. They loved having their grandkids to their home in Emory, Texas in the summers swimming in the lake, riding in the boat with ‘Papa Dave’, and enjoying one of Dave’s favorite hobbies, fishing. Later in life, Dave took a keen interest in cooking, and loved to cook for all their visitors. Dave had a true passion for serving others, whether through cooking, working at a local golf course, or responding to neighbors’ needs and requests at the drop of a hat.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lynda, his children, David (Kate) and Heather (Dustin) Steffen; his grandchildren: Tyler, Brogan, Parker, Brielle, Bowen, Cruz, and Leo. His memory will also be cherished by numerous friends, neighbors, and extended family members.

A private service is being planned by and for Dave’s family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for a candle to be lit in his honor and a prayer to be said for Dave and his family.

Dave’s legacy of love, service, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Rest in peace, David James Lakin. Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.