David Max Specht Jan. 6, 1944 –Oct. 21, 2019

David Max Specht, 75, passed away unexpectedly at his home in New Lisbon, Wis. on Oct. 21, 2019. A “Celebration of Life” and committal service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019 at Saints Peter and Paul Lutheran Church, Monticello. 

A memorial service was held at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Mauston, Wis. on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019. Visitation was at 1 p.m followed by the service at 2 p.m. 

David was born Jan. 6, 1944 in Monticello Iowa, the son of Max Specht and Loretta (Thalacker) Specht. Schooled in Castle Grove #6 through eighth grade, he graduated from Monticello High School with the class of 1962. Dave enjoyed participating in high school sports and choir. He was active in 4-H, being elected the county vice-president. He entered the Iowa School of Law after three years of college, but then enlisted in the United States Army OCS, completing his military requirement as a Second Lieutenant. 

Dave returned to farming with his brothers and parents. In partnership with three others, he created a commodity-price charting magazine business. In 1975 he bought a seat on the Chicago Board of Trade. After five years living in Chicago, Dave sold his charting business and seat and started a dairy farm in Wisconsin. Dave had to give up his dairy farm ambitions in the 1980s “farm crisis”. He then completed his Bachelor’s degree at the University of Wisconsin. He worked until his retirement for the Wisconsin Dept. of Agriculture. 

Dave is survived by his wife and dear friend, Roxann and her nieces and nephews, his sister Liz (Steve) Johnson of Monticello; brothers Paul (Kim) of Monticello; and Philip (Sharon) of McGregor; and 14 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Daniel; a sister-in-law Kathy; and a nephew Nathan. 

Dave enjoyed the outdoors! His annual Canada fishing trips would not be missed. His hunting skills were keen, and his positive attitude will be missed at deer camp. He will also be missed by many friends he has made over the years.