David J. “Dave” Henner, age 78, of Black Earth, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Monday, August 31st, 2026. Dave was born to James Henner and Elizabeth (Bette) George on February 11th, 1948.

Upon graduating from Lake Mills High School in 1966, Dave decided to enlist in the United States Marine Corps. He served in the USMC as Corporal from October 1967 to September 1973. Dave’s military service was marked by distinguished dedication, skill, and commitment to his country. During his service in the Vietnam era, he earned the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with a Bronze Service Star, Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, and the Rifle Expert Badge. These honors reflect not only his service in defense of our nation, but also his demonstrated expertise, discipline, and achievement as a United States Marine. His record stands as a lasting testament to the dedication and honor with which he served. His exposure to Agent Orange during his military service in Vietnam (‘67- ‘69) eventually led to illnesses that affected his physical health and mobility in later years. However, when Dave set his sights on something, you could bet he’d make it happen.

Dave was an avid and skilled hunter and fisherman, embarking on adventures that many outdoorsmen could only dream of. He was happiest when surrounded by nature, a love he passed down to his two beloved children. He looked forward to hunting season each year, often heading into the woods well before sunrise, and would reminisce over hunts from years past. The annual Henner ‘Deer Camp’ each Fall (also Dave’s favorite time of year) was met with plenty of excitement and inevitably ended with an even greater collection of memorable stories from years prior.

When Dave wasn’t in the woods, on the water, or making the drive to and from William S. Middleton Memorial Veteran Hospital & Clinics in Madison, you could find him at home in his ‘Big-Boy-Chair ', can in hand, cheering on his favorites—the Milwaukee Brewers, Green Bay Packers, and Wisconsin Badgers.

Dave was also a man of faith. A practicing Christian, he worshiped regularly at St. James Lutheran Church in Prairie Du Sac. Through his faith and his involvement at St. James, Dave formed many lasting friendships and served as a member of the church’s governing board for many years.

Ultimately, Dave’s children and grandchildren were the greatest loves of his life, and the love he shared with them will live in their hearts forever. Although he is no longer physically present on Earth, his spirit will live eternally, and those who loved him most find comfort in knowing he is in Heaven, free of all pain.

David is survived by his children, Benjamin (Michelle) Henner and Megan Henner; grandchildren, Taylor Henner-Ulanski, Lawrence Henner, and Ophelia Henner; siblings, Patrick (Tera) Henner, Thomas Henner, Triss Lemire, Rany (Danny) Logan; and brother-in-law, Roger Gilles. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Beth Bentheimer and Cindy Gilles; sister-in-law, Karen Henner; brothers-in-law, Dean Bentheimer and George Lemire; and his beloved grandmother, Florence “Flo” Stein.

A visitation will be held on Friday, October 16th at Cress Funeral Home, 3610 Speedway Rd., from 1- 3pm. A memorial service to honor Dave’s life will follow at 3 pm with Military Honors.

May Dave always have that eternal “Friday Feeling”

Cress Funeral & Cremation Services

3610 Speedway Rd    Madison

608-238-3434