David W. Shelton

We are saddened to announce the peaceful passing of David Wayne Shelton in his home on November 11, 2024. David is remembered fondly by his son Jeff; his two grandchildren, Elizabeth and Carter; and his siblings, Lester (Becky), James (Carole), Patsy (JR), the late Carolyn (Jim), and the late Ricky (Cheryl). He is preceded in death by his wives Cindy Shelton and Jean Shelton and is further survived by his former daughter-in-law Nicole.

To know David was to love him: his love for his work, his family and his friends came to no end. David began his career in the Navy in 1972, working on the USS Enterprise as an electrician. David’s career began in 1977 at Wisconsin Gas which is now WE Energies and retired in 2014.

David was known for his sharp wit and astuteness. One would be hard-pressed to find a game David couldn’t win; countless hours of Monopoly, Cribbage and Phase 10 filled his days with his grandchildren.

Mornings were always spent with a cup of coffee, (if his grandkids were lucky, his famous pancakes) and his favorite game show: The Price is Right. There was no one more skilled in the art of guessing the price of a toaster—David consistently proved his skill, passing his wisdom onto his grandchildren as they sat and played along each morning.

David was also an avid reader—books often piled next to his recliner. If one looks closely, they could find comic strips taped on the fridge, yesterday’s crossword filled out on his side table, or today’s paper in his hand.

Most of all, David adored spending time with his grandchildren. Long days of cramming himself into children’s trains at the zoo, driving to soccer practices with his Elton John CD and teaching his grandkids multiplication defined much of his time as a grandfather. His love reached beyond the limits of his heart, extending beyond the boundaries of words. Ellie and Carter will never be able to thank him enough.

As we bid farewell to David, we remember the legacy he left behind; one of great love, patience, kindness and humor. His spirit will live on in every game of cribbage, every George Strait song and every trip to Texas Roadhouse.

David’s journey on Earth may have come to an end, but his lessons in life and spirit will continue to guide those he loved. David’s family takes great solace in knowing that his life will be survived by so many. As his family celebrates his life, they reflect on the incredible man, father and grandfather he was and the immeasurable mark he has left on their lives. Rest in peace, David; your life lives on.

Dave’s family asks, in his honor, to please play his favorite song, “Spirit in the Sky” by Norman Greenbaum.

David will be laid to rest at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery at a later date. Please check back for updates.