David K. Ebbert

David Kurtz Ebbert, Viola, WI, died unexpectedly Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, in Viroqua, WI. He was 65.

Dave was born July 20, 1956, in Kansas City, Mo. to Kurtz W. and June Dickinson Ebbert. Dave’s father worked for Consumer’s Cooperative Association (later Farmland Industries) and his work took the family from Roeland Park, KS, to Ankeny, IA, and finally to Taylorville, IL, where Dave graduated from high school in 1974. He first attended Millikin University in Decatur, IL and graduated from Western Washington University in Bellingham, WA, with a degree in Environmental Studies.

As a young adult, Dave farmed and raised bean sprouts in Quinter, KS. He moved to the Driftless Region of Wisconsin in 1999.  He put his skilled mark on many homes in the area through his thriving carpentry business.  He also had worked as an inspector for MOSA.

In addition to his work, Dave loved to travel and spend time outdoors. He enjoyed collecting fossils and rocks from his hiking trips, especially through the mountainous western states. Bicycling, canoeing, and kayaking were favorite activities; he also played a mean game of bean bag toss and table tennis. He hosted epic Wisconsin River floats for his birthday each year. He was known for his beautifully crafted canoes and boats, and he loved spending time in his workshop.

His musical inclinations leaned toward show tunes and campfire songs strummed on his ukulele. He enjoyed singing with the Ridgetones Choir in Viroqua and playing music with the Firefly Brass Band.

Politics, especially from a Progressive stance, were his passion. He frequently sparked lively debates with friends and was unwavering in his values. He was actively involved in Vernon County and Wisconsin Democratic party politics. Whether going door to door to register voters, acting as emcee for county programs, or marching in parades as Vernon County's own “Bernie Sanders,” Dave was admired for his ability to build community and to fight for social justice.

Dave will be remembered as a devoted father, friend, and neighbor whose ready smile and infectious laugh could light a room. Everywhere he lived, Dave made friends, many of them lifelong.

He is survived by his son Silas Ebbert, daughter-in-law Tegan, and grandson August, of Hayden, Colorado; sister Nancy Ebbert of Maryland; and legions of friends and loved ones.

A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Memorials in Dave's honor may be made to the Mississippi Valley Conservancy, a non-profit land trust works to protect land in the Driftless region of Wisconsin for future generations.

Roth Family Cremation Center is serving the family.  www.rothfamilycremation.com

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