David T. Holmberg

David T. Holmberg, age 71, of Scandia, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 24, 2025, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly.

Born on July 24, 1953, in Stillwater, Minnesota, to Thure and Elva (Russell) Holmberg, David grew up on his grandparents’ farm near Square Lake. He spent countless childhood hours baling hay, doing chores, and learning the value of hard work—lessons he carried with him throughout his life. In 8th grade, the family moved to Scandia, where just across the street he met a girl named Winny Larson. Winny caught Dave's eye immediately, they began dating shortly after meeting, and they became best friends. David and Winny were married on January 20, 1973, at Elim Lutheran Church in Scandia—strategically planned between hunting seasons, of course.

David was a graduate of Forest Lake High School, Class of 1971. After high school, he began a career as a truck driver, hauling everything from households, gravel, cement, electronics, heavy equipment and wind turbines. But his heart always belonged outdoors.

Dave was an avid hunter of deer, geese and elk just to name a few. On a goose hunt in 1979 Dave was staying at a farm through an introduction of a cousin. The group of guys were not having much luck hunting. So the owners of the farm introduced them to their son Bryan. Bryan came in and taught them to hunt on the Canadian prairie by pretending to be a cow. (True story!) This trip changed his life as those introductions established lifelong friendships. A testament to David’s ability to connect with anyone, anywhere.

In the mid to late 80's David and Winny along with a group of friends started putting together trips out west to snowmobile in the mountains of Montana, Wyoming and Idaho. Over the years, 100's of people were part of these trips enjoying the fun and beauty of snowmobiling in the mountains.

David's other passion was a 40 acre lot of land he purchased with family and friends that was his happy place. Here he enjoyed deer hunting, snowmobiling, 4 wheeling, sitting by the campfire drinking whiskey 7's and telling stories. A place where he felt a connection to his dad and enjoyed spending time with friends and family.

David and Winny raised their daughters in Scandia, instilling in them a love for adventure, family, and laughter. He was larger than life—a man who worked hard, played harder, and loved with his whole heart. His devotion to his family was unwavering. He loved snowmobiling, four-wheeling, fishing, and anything that brought him into the great outdoors. But nothing mattered more to him than Winny. She was the center of his world, and he made sure everyone knew it.

David is preceded in death by his parents, Thure and Elva. He is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Winny; his daughters, Casi (Andy) Maile and Theresa (Jonas) Croyle Johnson; his cherished grandchildren; and many other relatives and lifelong friends.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A memorial service will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake. The family will greet friends from 1:30 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.