Obituary: David McGovern

David Michael McGovern, 80, passed away on June 21, 2024, at Essentia Health-St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth. He was born on June 4, 1944, to Benjamin and Alice (White) McGovern in Duluth.

David was raised in Hermantown and graduated from Hermantown High School. He entered the U.S. Air Force on Nov. 19, 1962, and completed his training in Amarillo, Texas. He later served in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Following his honorable discharge on Nov. 18, 1966, he returned to Duluth. David was united in marriage to Susan Eckstrom in 1971.

He began a career with the U.S. Postal Service and retired as a supervisor of the Two Harbors post office at the age of 48. In his retirement, David enjoyed many winters as a snowbird in Weslaco, Texas, where he organized and participated in many gatherings and activities at the retirement park.

He was always there to lend a helping hand to many, never asking for anything in return. David was a huge fan of his Minnesota sports teams including the Vikings, the Wild, and especially the Twins. He loved to fish and spend time on the water, and enjoyed camping. The company of his family was always appreciated, even when simply playing bean bags, games or cards.

David attended several polka dances at the Cloquet VFW; he loved dancing anywhere he could. A talented artist, he painted and did woodworking his whole life. It brought him great joy to share his artistic works with family and friends, and they will forever cherish them.

David is survived by his children, David “Troy” (Kathy) McGovern, Tina (Jim) Wentz, and Ken McGovern; grandchildren, Molly, Sophia and Annie McGovern, Danielle Miller, Chad and Aimee Wentz, and Alyssa (Justin) Bonner; great-granddaughter, Olivia Bonner; and siblings Lois, Anita and Bernie. He was preceded in death by his wife, Susan, and his parents and many siblings.

In accordance with David’s wishes, no public services will be held. David will be buried in the Hermantown Cemetery and will be memorialized near his wife, Susan (Eckstrom) McGovern, in the Canosia Township Cemetery. Nelson Funeral Care has been entrusted with arrangements.

Pine Knot News, July 5, 2024