David Jerome Van Ert

David Jerome Van Ert, Age 93, joined his wife Barbara (nee Wokosin) in eternal life on May 18, 2021. He was born to Leonard and Ella (Jacobson) Van Ert on July 24, 1927 in Milwaukee, WI. David graduated from Pulaski High School in 1945. He joined the Navy after high school to serve his country in World War II. Thankfully, the war ended while he was in boot camp and David found himself assigned to Operation HighJump, establishing a research base on Antarctica. David’s role in the operation was that of a signalman on the Sea Plane tender, USS Currituck (AV-7). The GI bill allowed David to attend college and start his career. He was a natural leader and very personable which led him to management. He managed multiple Firestone stores which introduced him to the automotive tire industry. He stayed in the tire business working at Seiberling tire and finishing his career at Bandag as a District Sales Manager for the Midwest. In 1947 David met wife Barbara, Dave and Barb were married on October 14, 1950 and started their family in 1952. Dave and Barb were members of a swimming and tennis club where they created many endearing and enduring friendships. They enjoyed tennis with their group of friends and their children embraced the swimming, diving and tennis activities. David is survived by his 6 children: Eric (Claudette), Victoria (Craig) Gassmann, Lawrence (Cindy), Glenn, Linda (Ken) Schultz, and Daniel. David was preceded in death by his beloved wife Barbara in 2017. David is further survived by his 4 siblings: Daphne, Daniel, Diane, and Denise. He is also survived by grandchildren, great grandchildren, and other relatives and friends A private service was held to celebrate his life.