David Ivan Vieth
February 19, 1955 - February 21, 2026
MIDDLETON - David Ivan Vieth — adored husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend — passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at UW Hospital in Madison, WI, on February 21, 2026, at the age of 71. He will be remembered for his extraordinary patience, quiet wisdom, and steady love for life and family.
Dave was born on February 19, 1955, in Sparta, WI, to Ivan and Shirley (Huber) Vieth. He was the youngest of three children and grew up first on a dairy farm in Norwalk before moving to Sparta. He approached the world with curiosity, capability, and humility — never seeking attention yet earning respect wherever he went. As a middle schooler, his curiosity led him to buy a 1929 Oakland Six for $275 and rebuild it in his parents’ single-stall garage. He excelled in school, serving as president of the local National Honor Society and qualifying for a National Merit Scholarship.
Dave met Amy Wells in 8th grade Algebra, and she became the love of his life. He began college at UW–Madison before transferring to UW–La Crosse to reunite with Amy. Their strong connection was evident to everyone who knew them, and they married in 1980. Rooted in friendship, mutual admiration, and shared values, they built nearly 45 years of marriage and raised a loving family in Middleton, WI.
Dave's children could always depend on him for a listening ear, thoughtful advice, and unwavering support. He was deeply involved in whatever activities his children pursued and encouraged them to try new things. He enjoyed exploring the world alongside his family, turning each journey into lessons in history and appreciation for nature. An avid water-skier, he passed his passion onto his children and spent countless hours driving the boat for the kids and their friends. Their shared love for lake life drew them each summer to a century-old cabin in Land O’ Lakes, WI.
Professionally, Dave spent four decades with the State of Wisconsin, primarily in leadership and operations roles within the Department of Transportation. Colleagues remember him as a thoughtful, caring leader who invested deeply in people. He was widely respected and considered a mentor by many.
Above all, he cherished his role as a grandfather. “Bapa,” as he was known to his grandkids, devoted his time to reading books, building Lego sets, giving lawnmower rides, picking blueberries, and whatever else sparked the grandkids’ interest. Their happiness was his priority and he created incredibly strong bonds with each of them. Among his happiest times were the summer days at Black Oak Lake, lying on the pontoon boat with a grandchild napping on his chest.
In 2012, Dave was diagnosed with an aggressive form of genetic lung cancer. He fought the disease bravely and humbly for 14 years. By the time he passed, Dave was one of the longest-surviving patients with his form of cancer. Driven by a deep desire to be present for his family, and supported by Amy’s unwavering strength and the compassionate team at UW Carbone Cancer Center, he lived to witness the marriages of his two children and the births of five grandchildren. As Dave approached the final days of his life, he spoke often of how fantastic his life had been and of the deep gratitude he felt for it. Though he longed for more time with his grandchildren, he also felt a strong pull to be reunited with the love of his life, Amy, who had passed just three months before.
Dave is survived by his children, Michael (Kaila) Vieth and Kristen (Alex) Seguin; his beloved grandchildren, Caleb (5), Allie (3), Sawyer (2), Evan (1), and Graham (~4 months); his sisters, Mary (Doug) Yellick and Nancy (Bill) Waterbury; his sisters-in-law, Nancy (Randy) Brooks, Leslie (Chuck) Wydeven, and Mary (Doug) Leis; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Amy; parents, Ivan and Shirley Vieth; and parents-in-law, Morgan and Marlene Wells.
A memorial service will be held at ST. LUKE’S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 7337 Hubbard Ave., Middleton, at 12 noon on Saturday, March 7, 2026, with Pastor Brian Ferguson presiding. Visitation will take place at the church that morning from 10 a.m. until the time of service, followed by a luncheon. A burial service will be held the next day, Sunday, March 8, 2026, at Wanders Rest Cemetery in Norwalk.
A heartfelt thank you to the care providers at UW Carbone Cancer Center, with a special thank you to Dr. Toby Campbell and Dr. Michael Bassetti, who provided Dave with compassionate and expert care throughout the years. Memorials may be made to the UW Carbone Cancer Center. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.
