David McKechnie

DAVID ALLEN MCKECHNIE

Atkins

David Allen McKechnie,

63, of Atkins, died peacefully at his home on the farm on Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017, following a 14-year battle with heart failure. Kloster Funeral Home, Marengo, is assisting the family with arrangements. Celebration of Life Services: 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 19, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Walford, with Pastor Travis Borkosky officiating. Burial: Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery, Cedar Rapids. Visitation: 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 18, at the church. Casual attire is welcome both days.

Dave was born Dec. 29, 1953. His love for farming started early working alongside his father, William (Bud). He graduated from Benton Community High School in 1972 and was a farmer for life, taking care of his livestock and land and a hay baler for many. He generously shared his abundant sweet corn crop, which included deliveries to local food banks. Dave was the good neighbor, friend, son and brother who would help anyone in need, clearing the roads, checking fences, backhoe work, pulling cars out of ditches, whatever was needed. He was there 24/7 as vacations were not part of his routine. Dave loved teasing and joking with his nieces and nephews, and showing city kids just how great life was on the farm. He did it all with his own style and sense of humor.

Dave was a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Norway and Walford, where he was a tireless worker. He served on the church council, as a youth leader, snow plower and volunteer for numerous behind- the-scenes jobs that make a small church work. He was also extensively involved with the Farm Bureau at the state and local level and a member of the St. Clair Masonic Lodge No. 164. He enjoyed foosball for many years, and was proud of the many trophies he won taking on all comers.

Dave is survived by his mother, Betty of Cedar Rapids; his brother, Doug of Cedar Rapids; his sisters, Jan (Mark) Lux of Scottsdale, Ariz., Sheri (Kevin) Kuester of Watkins and Lori (Jay) Paulsen of Iowa City; his nieces and nephews, Nathan (Jennah) Pickart, Hannah Pickart (fiance Dustin Choplick), and Ted, Holly and Eli Paulsen; and his beloved dog and constant companion, Buddy.

He was preceded in death by his father, William McKechnie.

Memorials may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church, Walford; Benton Community High School FFA, Van Horne; or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be left at www.klosterfuneralhome.com.