David Arthur Herbst
December 21, 1947 - March 8, 2024
David Arthur Herbst, 76, passed away on March 8, 2024, in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and unwavering commitment to his family and community. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Donald and Margaret Herbst, Dave's early life was a testament to the strength and resilience that would define him.
 
Dave dedicated himself to a life of service early on, starting with two tours in Vietnam as a medic, where he showcased his compassion and bravery. Following his service, he pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee, laying the foundation for his impactful career. Dave's professional life was marked by his work in probation and parole and special needs adoption services, where he made significant contributions through his dedication to helping others. This dedication continued during his retirement years where he volunteered helping veterans in Veteran’s Court and as a peer specialist with NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness).

Residing most of his adult life in Madison, Wisconsin, before his last years in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, Dave is remembered fondly for his kind heart and sense of humor. 
 
Dave was preceded in death by his father, Donald Herbst; mother, Margaret Herbst; stepfather, Frank Helminiak; brother, Kenny Herbst; and sister, Sharon Vogel. He is survived by his loving family: daughter, Sarah Drahn; son, Nathan Herbst; daughter-in-law, Sarah Herbst; grandsons, Alex Labonte, Aden Drahn, Sawyer, Milo, Oscar, and Hugo Herbst; brother, Robert Herbst; sister-in-law, Elizabeth Herbst; and his niece and nephew. His beloved dog, Skye, also mourns his loss.
 
Dave was a regular supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project, an organization close to his heart. In memory of Dave, memorial donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516, to honor his legacy of service and compassion.
 
A celebration of Dave's life will be held at a future date. Arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Watkins Funeral Home.  His family invites all who knew him to join in commemorating his meaningful life and express condolences by signing the guestbook at: www.daviswatkins.com (http://www.daviswatkins.com/). 
 
Dave's journey through life was a remarkable one, marked by his dedication to serving others, his boundless love for his family, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness and humor. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit and the memories he created will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know him.


DAVID ARTHUR HERBST

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