David D. Heft, age 93, formerly of Columbus, died on Wednesday, March 29, 2017 in Viroqua.The memorial gathering will be at Koepsell-Zeidler Funeral Home in Columbus on Saturday, May 6, 2017 from 12:00 noon until 1:30 p.m. The memorial service will follow at the funeral home with Fr. Steve Kortendick officiating. Inurnment will be at Hillside Cemetery in Columbus with a luncheon to follow at the American Legion Hall in Columbus.David was born on February 13, 1924 in Lodi, Wisconsin to Raymond and Lillian (Olin) Heft. When he was 17, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served with the Marine Raiders in the Pacific Theater of War. Dave became infected with the malaria parasite and was honorably discharged in February of 1946. On October 30, 1946, he was united in marriage with Doris Austin in Madison. Dave went to work at Oscar Meyer in Madison where he was employed for many years until he retired. David served 20 + years in the National Guard. David and Doris enjoyed retirement by spending winters in Florida. He also enjoyed cooking, gardening, reading, and camping.Survivors include his children, Margaret (Roger) Quamme of Soldiers Grove, Janet Smith of Columbus, and Thomas (Susan) Heft of Oshkosh; 11 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends. David was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years Doris; his parents; his brothers, Dean and Donald; sons David, Philip, and James; grandson, Jacob Smith; infant granddaughter, Mandy Smith; infant great grandson, Noah Quamme and infant great granddaughter Olivia Quamme.The Koepsell-Zeidler Funeral Home in Columbus is caring for the family. To leave online condolences, or for directions and other information, please visit our website at www.KoepsellFH.com.
