David F. Ironside

David F. Ironside, age 77 of Oshkosh, passed away at his residence on August 29, 2026. He was born on July 29,1949 to the late Robert and Marcella (Robl) Ironside.

While serving his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War from 1968 to 1972, he was briefly stationed in Florida in 1971. This is where fate stepped in and led Dave to meet Debra Hudgens, who just happened to be there on vacation. They knew immediately they were meant for each other. So much so that in December of that year and after only 6 dates, they were married back in Debra’s hometown of Midland, TX.

Shortly after their marriage, Dave was honorably discharged from the Air Force, and together they began building their life as a family. They welcomed their daughter, Kathy, in 1973, followed by their son, Eric, in 1977. Over the years, their family has continued to grow, with the joy of grandchildren and, later this year, the much-anticipated arrival of their first great-grandchild.

After moving around a bit, they eventually settled back in Dave’s hometown of Oshkosh, WI, where he began what would become a long and successful career at Nercon Engineering. He dedicated 38 years to the company, remaining there until his retirement in 2015. His commitment to his work was something his family was always proud of, but as much as Dave valued his career, his greatest joy was always found in the time he spent with the people he loved most.

Dave never missed an opportunity to be there for his family. He proudly attended his children’s and grandchildren’s events, rarely missing a game, performance, celebration, or milestone. One of his favorite things was planning surprise weekend getaways with his wife, creating special adventures and memories for the two of them to share. He also loved gathering with family and friends for a game of cribbage and it was an extra bonus if there was a Bears or Brewers game on in the background.

Dave was a man who found joy in the simple things. When he had a quiet moment to himself, you might find him with his head buried in a book, reading just about anything he could get his hands on - he would rarely leave the house without a book in his hand. If he wasn’t reading, he might be fishing or shooting a game of pool. He was incredibly smart, with a quick wit and a love for solving puzzles and challenging those around him to join in. But more than anything, Dave loved making people smile and laugh...which he always did.

David is survived by his wife, Debra Ironside; children, Kathy (Chris) Rennert and Eric (Amanda) Ironside; grandchildren, Brandon (Breanna), Jake, Liam, Millie, and Emma; sisters, Barbara (Ken) Resop and Sharon (Paul Julka) Berholtz; mother-in-law, Nelda Grigg; sister-in-law, Cindy (Bruce) Styner; step-brother-in-law, Kelly (Deborah) Grigg. In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his grandchildren, Jack and Owen.

A funeral service for David will be held at Konrad-Behlman Funeral Home-Eastside, 402 Waugoo Ave. on Friday, September 11, 2026 at 11:30 am. Visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Interment with full Military Honors will take place at Lake View Memorial Park.

Dave's family extends their heartfelt thanks to everyone who has shared kind words, memories, and support during this difficult time. Your thoughtfulness has provided much needed comfort and has meant so much to the family.