David Ervin Siltala

David Ervin Siltala, of Sebeka, MN, was born April 11, 1943 to Ervin and Millie (Savela) Siltala in Wadena, MN. He grew up on the family farm west of Sebeka and attended country school in Blowers Township. During his early teen years his family moved to the Iron Range for work. There he attended school in Mountain Iron, MN. They lived there for 3 years before returning to Sebeka where Dave graduated from Sebeka High School in 1961. He then attended the University of Minnesota for a year before returning to attend Wadena Tech School where he studied Electronics. After completing the program, he worked for Control Data along with various side jobs in order to fulfill his dream of moving back up north. On September 26, 1964, Dave was united in marriage to Gloria Dost. They lived in the Minneapolis area for 12 years before returning to Sebeka where they purchased a hardware store. In 1980, Dave went to work for Security State Bank of Sebeka where he worked until his retirement in 2006. He also farmed part time. In June 2014, he lost the love of his life and spoke often of his yearning to be reunited with her. On December 26, 2018, at the age of 75 years, God saw fit to call a weary and tired traveler home.Dave was an avid outdoorsman his entire life. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, trapping and snowmobiling. He also enjoyed traveling and took his family on many memorable vacations. Dave touched many lives and loved to visit, telling stories and sharing his experiences.  His laughter was contagious. His faith and family was most important to him and he had many friends that were so special to him.David is survived by his children, Shelby (Jurmu) and her husband Nathan of Monticello, MN; Michelle (Nevala) and her husband Jonathan of Sebeka, MN; Shane and his wife Luann (Skoog) of Sebeka. 21 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren; his mother Millie of Menahga, MN; brothers Dan (Carol) Siltala, Dick (Sharon) Siltala and sister Kay (Ernie) Kreklau.David was preceded in death by his wife Gloria; daughter Rhonda; father Ervin; and 2 grandchildren. Visitation will be held from 5-8 PM on Wednesday, January 2, 2019 at Menahga Laestadian Lutheran Church in Menahga and one hour prior to the service at the church. Prayer service will be held at 7:00 PM. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 AM Thursday, January 3, 2019 at Menahga Laestadian Lutheran Church in Menahga. Interment will be at Haycreek Cemetery.