David I. Small, age 84, formerly of LaValle, passed away on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at Elroy Health Services. He was born on December 28, 1940 in the Township of Woodland, the son of Isaac and Ida (Fry) Small. He graduated from Webb High School. In 1962, he married Marlene Petzke and together they had three children.

At the age of 19, Dave started working as a cheesemaker at the Carr Valley Cheese Factory. Although he attempted to retire a couple of times, he was finally successful shortly before turning 80.

Dave was a hardworking, smart, caring, genuine person who centered his life around his family and making sure they had everything they needed. Nothing was more special to him than family gatherings. He loved talking to people whether it be at the factory, the ballpark, restaurants, just around town, or wherever. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Over the years, Dave enjoyed different hobbies like bowling, hunting, slow pitch softball, dart league, woodworking, watching sports (Packers, Brewers, Badgers), and traveling to places like Delaware, Florida, Missouri, and North Carolina.

Dave is survived by his children, Vicki Eyers of Oregon, WI, and Lenny (Teresa) Small of Andover, MN; six grandchildren, Alex (Marie) Small, Christine Small, Melissa (Forrest) Cantwell, Zach (Naomi) Eyers, Nick Small and Eli Small; and four great grandchildren, Lucas Small, Addison Cantwell, Theodore Cantwell, and Coleman Eyers. In addition, Dave is survived by siblings Dorothy Fry, Donald Small, and Lester Small.

He was preceded in death by his son Tracy Small; son-in-law Jeff Eyers; his parents; brother, Gifford Fry;  sisters Margaret Ewers, Judy Karstetter, and Josephine Karstetter.

A memorial service for Dave will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, June 30, 2025 at the Farber Funeral Home in Reedsburg with Chaplain Mike Amberg officiating. Visitation will be on Monday from 1:30 p.m. until the time of the service. Burial will be held at a later date in the Resting Green Cemetery in Ironton.

The Farber Funeral Home, Reedsburg, is assisting the family.