David A. Drath

1958 ∼ 2021

David A. Drath, 62 years old of Kenosha, WI passed away Sunday, March 7, 2021, at Hospice Alliance Hospice House, Pleasant Prairie, WI surrounded by his family. He was born October 6, 1958, in Kenosha, WI the son of the late Herman “Bud” and Grace (Carlsen) Drath. Dave had a caring and helpful personality; he worked for over 20 years as a nurse’s aide at Southern Colony, Union Grove, WI. His interests included stained glass work, gardening, and feeding the local birds. Dave also enjoyed helping his partner in furniture refinishing and fixing up his childhood home in Kenosha, a task that he took much pride in. He looked forward to their annual parties; Christmas in July, where all the guests wore white and brought charitable gifts and a Christmas (in December) party, in which the guests brought food donations for ARCW and Women’s Horizons as well as toys for children in need. Survivors include his partner of 32 years, Neil Allen Zeltinger; two brothers, Jim Drath and John Drath, both of Pleasant Prairie, WI; a niece Jenni (Ryan) Ade; a great-nephew, Grayson Ade; and many cousins. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 11, 2021, at Proko Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, March 12, 2021, at the funeral home with interment to follow in Sunset Ridge Memorial Park, Kenosha, WI. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions to Hospice Alliance or the LGBT Center of Southeastern Wisconsin, Racine, WI, in his memory. Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th Street Kenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit & Sign Dave’s Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com

Condolences

Shelley MacGregor March 14, 2021
In the summer of 1979, I came home from my sophomore year in college and returned for the last time to my job at KMart in Zion. I had had a couple good friends there, but there was a new manager who decided on sight that he didn't like me. My old friends both had career aspirations with KMart and quickly distanced themselves from me. Lucky me, I met David and Hugh Held, both working in the shoe department, which I passed at least twice a day on the way to the time clock. I started hanging out with them and some others at The Shack, where I was accepted, sometimes welcomed; always tolerated. David and his friends were the island of friendship and camaraderie that got me through that summer and beyond. Thank you David. If my photo ever comes through, it's from that summer of 1979.
Brian Olson March 12, 2021
Condolences to family, Neil, and friends. I remember David from the old Bradford HS when he was a Jr and I was a Sr in 1975. He was so much fun to talk to, dance with at the local club back when disco was all the rage, and party with at Neil's apartment. I will miss him much.
Courtney Bjorn March 12, 2021
What a beautiful, sweet, generous & kind man, taken too soon. Such a loss to friends and family, and also the community. Thankful for fun times filled with smiles, and silliness, and Jell-O shots! Will be so missed by all! My love to all who knew him, and especially to Neil....hugs and kisses my friend...hugs & kisses!
Robert & Nancy Wells March 12, 2021
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Neil on the loss of your beloved David. He will live on in the hearts of all who had the good fortune to have come in contact with him.
Karen Vena March 11, 2021
I remember meeting David for the first time and feeling like I had known him for years. David's smile and personality had a way of making people feel welcome. He always spoke with warmth and pride of his years working at Southern Colony. David will be sadly missed.
Judy Herr March 10, 2021
David- He made visitors feel so warmly welcome. With his calming presence he added warmth to each encounter. You will truly be missed, my friend.
Darya Glass March 10, 2021
David was always kind to others, had a generous heart and a GREAT sense of humor! One such story comes to mind when a group of us (Neil included) were retelling memorable childhood stories. A summer "Pool" story was shared that broke up the whole room for at least a good half hour to 45 minutes. Those of us who were in attendance still laugh out loud when we remember those stories, for there are MANY! Those are the "David" moments that will be cherished and indelibly imprinted in our memories. His spirit and beautiful blue eyes will be missed by many. Vaya Con Dios our dear friend, we shall meet again. The Lord is my Shepherd...Only goodness and kindness follow me all the days of my life; And I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. (Psalm 23: 1-4, 6) Love, Howard and Darya Glass
Michael A. Laudonio March 10, 2021
Heartfelt sympathies to you Neil and your extended family. I will remember David as always smiling and full of life. He will be missed. So sorry for your loss.
Sandra Butler March 9, 2021
Dearest Neil and family, I will keep you in my prayers for comfort and healing. I have so many fond memories of David, he will forever be in my heart! Rest in peace, David! 🙏
Ward Dustin March 9, 2021
David we love you and will forever miss you. We just didn't get together enough but those times we did I will always treasure.Love Ward & Jimmy
Susan Nitcher March 9, 2021
loved all the great times on ctg 16 back in the 90's. You will be missed RIP