NEW GLARUS – David Lee Hodgson of New Glarus passed away on Saturday, December 26, 2020 at his home. He was born on October 24, 1932 in Tulare, South Dakota the son of Benjamin and Marguerite (Hamilton) Hodgson. At the age of four David and his family moved to the Arena, WI area. David graduated from Arena High School in 1950. Following high school David entered into the United States Air Force serving until 1954. After his service in the Air Force, he continued his education at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. While in Platteville he met his future wife Barbara Frey. They were united in marriage on August 25, 1957 at St. John’s United Church of Christ in Monroe. David would go on to graduate from the University of Wisconsin-Madison earning a degree in Dairy Science. He would then go on to work for the Pet Milk Company as a fieldman in New Glarus. Following the closing of the Pet Milk plant, Dave became a partner in the Erb Implement Company in New Glarus, which he later owned and operated until retiring in 2000. Dave was a member of the Swiss United Church of Christ, and served on the consistory and as president. Dave also served on the New Glarus Village Board and Village President. He was a charter member of the Edelweiss Chalet Country Club, New Glarus Lion’s Club, and Stuessy-Kuenzi American Legion Post #141. Dave was active in the Wilhelm Tell Play and was an avid fan of New Glarus Knights sports along with the Badgers, Brewers, and Packers.
Dave is survived by his wife Barbara, sons Steven (Teresa) and Craig (Amy). He is further survived by his sisters Phoebe Jane Walter, sister-in-law Judy Weiss, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Marlene and David Trickel, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, son Scott, father-in-law and mother-in-law Charles and Ellen Frey, brother Thomas (Geraldine), sister JoAnne (Frances) Sheehan, and brother-in-law Merton Walter.
Due to the ongoing pandemic no public service will be held. Dave will be inurned in the Swiss Church Cemetery, New Glarus at a later date.
The Zentner-Beal Funeral Home is assisting the family.
A memorial fund has been established.
Online condolences may be given at www.bealfuneralhomes.com
