David R. Zemke – Rochester

David (Dave) Richard Zemke, 64, of Rochester, MN, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, October 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Dave was born on April 6, 1961, in Red Wing, MN, to Arleigh A. and Lois K. (Reese) Zemke. He was baptized at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church on April 13, 1961, and confirmed there on May 18, 1975. He attended St. John's Lutheran Elementary School through the eighth grade and graduated from Zumbrota High School in 1979. Dave went on to earn an Associate of Arts degree in Communications from Rochester Community and Technical College.

On August 4, 1984, Dave married Julie A. Barry. Just one year later, on August 1, 1985, he received a bone marrow transplant following a leukemia diagnosis—an event that shaped his lifelong advocacy for cancer patients, survivors, and their families.

Dave worked at McNeilus Steel for over 10 years before joining Thrivent Financial in September 2001, where he remained a dedicated team member. Outside of work, Dave was deeply involved in the community. He refereed youth basketball, umpired softball games across all age groups, and was a passionate participant in sports and recreation. He especially enjoyed basketball, softball, bowling, motorcycling, golfing, and playing in two 500 card clubs. His happiest moments were spent with family—especially on or near a ball field.

A faithful member of Resurrection and Life Lutheran Church since 1984, Dave was active in many roles throughout the years. He sang in the choir, played trumpet during services, and served his church community in numerous capacities.

Dave is survived by his beloved wife, Julie A. Zemke; daughters, Jessica J. Zemke and Jackie L. (John) Riddell; and grandchildren, Aubrey K. Meyers, Leila R. DiSalvo, Jonathan B. Zemke, and Mark R. Riddell. He is also survived by his siblings, Wanda (Alan) Hadler, Mary (Kevin) Smith, and Jim (Deb) Zemke; as well as many nieces and nephews.

In his final act of giving, Dave chose to donate his body to Mayo Clinic for medical research.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at Resurrection Lutheran Church. Visitation will take place from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, October 10, 2025, in the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (Blood Cancer United) or Resurrection or Life Lutheran Church.

Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com