In Memory of

David

Mandel

Obituary for David Mandel

Private family services for David Mandel, age 85, of West Point will be held on Monday, December 7 2020 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in West Point, NE with burial at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Cemetery in Dodge, NE. Minnick Funeral Home in West Point is assisting with the arrangements. The family suggests that memorials be directed to St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church and/or St. Wenceslaus Cemetery Fund.

David Lee Mandel, age 85, passed away on Tuesday, December 1, 2020 at Elk Ridge Independent Living. David was born on June 6, 1935 at his home in rural Dodge to Elmer and Adella (Bures) Mandel. He attended a rural one-room schoolhouse and because education was important to him, he attained his GED later in life. David became a hired hand at age 14 and devoted his life to farming. Dave served in the United States Army Reserves from 1957-1963, stationed at Fort Leonardwood, MO and loved his country. David married the love of his life, Gladys Neesen, on January 5, 1960 at St. Aloysius Church. The couple celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary earlier this year.

Dave and Gladys had five children; Don (Sue), Dan (Debbie), Russ (Nancy), Mike and Deann (Steve) Grovijohn. Dave was the proud grandfather to Nick (Kate), Elizabeth (Bradley), Anna (Eric), Megan (Andrew), Samantha, Maximillian, Jacob, Jada, Kyser and Kale; and a proud great grandfather to Noah David Winkelbauer. David leaves behind a sister, Charlene Kucera and brothers Marvin (Marietta) and Rich (Diane) Mandel; in-laws Virgil Schlautman, Angie Mandel, Mary Mandel, Lavern Neesen; along with many nieces and nephews. David is proceeded in death by his parents, Elmer and Adella; wife Gladys on January 6; brothers Eugene, Harvey, Roy and Ray, sister Marlane Schlautman, in-laws Claus and Elizabeth Neesen, Marvin Kucera, Martha and Nobert Schorn and Leonard Neesen and other relatives.

Dave was always quick with a smile and would lend a helping hand to anyone; a true gentleman. Even though he was a quiet soul, he was the most kind, patient and gentle person. He worked hard on the farm his whole life raising cattle, pigs, sheep, chickens, ducks, geese, corn, soybeans and alfalfa. He was meticulous about his farm; straight corn rows, clean bean fields and well cared for livestock. While a hard worker, he always made time for his family, friends and faith. Dave was part of the Coop board, school board, parish council, Holy Hours, Eucharist Minister and proudly sold Garst seed for over 30 years. Dave loved spending time with his kids, going for Sunday drives, and attending their events. Dave and Gladys loved spending time with friends, playing cards, golfing and bowling. Once the grandkids came along, he gave endless rides on the four-wheeler, made the best popcorn, gave an extra scoop of ice cream, played endless card games, attended every event that he could and also asked about their schoolwork or jobs! He instilled his values and work ethic to his kids and grandchildren. He will be missed!

The family is planning a celebration of life at a later date.