David Toepke
August 3, 1937 – February 23, 2025
David Toepke, 88, of Carmel, Indiana, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born to Otto and Agnes Toepke, David was raised with strong values of faith, love, and community. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Clarence and Otto.
David shared a beautiful 68-year marriage with his high school sweetheart, Ruth Toepke. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and faith, setting an inspiring example of commitment and partnership. He is survived by his devoted wife Ruth; his beloved daughters Laura Crisp (David), Ann Marie Ravenna(Leon), and Cheryl Konie; and his cherished grandchildren Christiana Patterson (Rob), Nicco Ravenna (Kiersten), Grace Greener (Michael), Abigail Crisp, David Y. Crisp, Noah Konie, and Emma Konie, and Dixon. He was also the proud great-grandfather of Madelynn, Waylon, Judah, Bennett, and Annalia, who were the light of his life.
David earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Cornell College in Iowa and went on to receive his Master’s in Education from Northern Illinois University. He dedicated 35 years of his life to education, impacting countless lives as a high school teacher, coach, and counselor in Illinois. David’s influence extended beyond the classroom, coaching basketball and track at Plainfield, Illinois schools, and serving as a trusted counselor at Wheeling High School and Hersey High School from its opening. His guidance, compassion, and unwavering support left a lasting impact on his students, many of whom remained close to him throughout his life.
A man of great faith, David was an active volunteer at Willow Creek Church, where he found joy in serving others and fostering a strong community. His love for sports was evident in his enthusiastic support of his grandchildren at their games and activities. He was their biggest fan, always present, cheering them on from the sidelines.
David’s legacy is one of love, dedication, and presence. He believed in showing love by being present in the lives of others, a value he demonstrated every day as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, teacher, coach, counselor, and friend. His warm smile, gentle spirit, and unwavering faith will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who were blessed to know him.
In lieu of flowers , donations can be made to World Vision.
Condolences (2)
Mary
Dave Toepke
Janice Eyster
I really feel blessed to have met and talked with Dave when he and his wife would visit their family here in Central Indiana. They were always friendly and it was easy to strike up a conversation. He loved his family time. My prayers go out to his wife, Ruth, and their children and grandchildren.
So thankful that we will see him again, in heaven, where he walks now, with the Lord.