David Dean Mahoney

David Dean Mahoney, age 77, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving wife and three daughters as the first snowstorm of the winter quieted the world outside. Born on May 17, 1948, in Eau Claire, WI, to Mildred and Richard Mahoney, Dave lived a life grounded in service, humility, and deep devotion to his family.

Dave met the love of his life, Shirley, while they were both directory assistant operators at Wisconsin Bell. They built a joyful, close-knit life together, spending 50 years together raising three daughters—Jennifer (Scott Wagner), Tracy (Brian Quamme), and Sarah (Richard Stackhouse)—and later welcoming grandchildren who became the light of his world: Taylor, Eleanore (Ella), Sawyer, Owen, Granger, Savannah (Savvy), and his birthday buddy, Benjamin (Benji).

Dave proudly served his country for nearly 40 years, beginning with the U.S. Navy Seabees in 1968, with assignments in Vietnam, Puerto Rico, and Great Lakes. He went on to serve in the U.S. Navy Reserve and U.S. Army Reserve, where he held multiple leadership roles and achieved the rank of E-8, and completed his career in the Wisconsin Air National Guard, retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant in 2008. His military career was one of steadfast dedication, integrity, and quiet pride.

He lived these same values throughout his community life. Dave volunteered as an EMT for over 16 years, served as a volunteer firefighter, cooked at his church, helped establish Sunshine Supper, and spent more than 3,500 hours offering comfort and conversation to Veterans through the Masonic Service Association Coffee Cart at the Madison VA. Through RSVP programs, he provided thousands of miles of rides to Veterans and homebound seniors—always happy to help, never seeking recognition.

Dave was also deeply involved in Wisconsin Masonry, where he held numerous leadership positions, including top offices in all three York Rite bodies. Though proud of this work, he never carried himself with importance—he simply believed in showing up, serving others, and offering a steady hand wherever needed. At the time of his passing, he was honored to serve as President of the National Sojourners.

Despite his achievements, Dave remained humble and selfless. Even while battling advanced non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, he insisted on driving a fellow Veteran home from an appointment before seeking care for himself—an act that perfectly captures the man he was. He taught his daughters to stand up for what is right, to accept others without judgment, and to keep going even when it's hard. He never gave up on anyone, especially his girls.

Dave was known for his spaghetti sauce, his Father McGinty breakfast sandwiches, and his famous cheesy hash browns. He loved cooking for a crowd—Sunshine Suppers, retreat lunches, even a wedding—approaching each meal with pride, humor, and a generous heart. Though famously unwilling to wear shorts or flip-flops, he softened with age, and his love grew only deeper and more obvious. This past summer, Dave and Shirley received the People with Big Hearts Award, a recognition from the Colonial Club as fitting as it was earned.

Dave is further survived by beloved family members who enriched his life with love, laughter, and unwavering support: Diane and Bill, Stela, Eric and Chelsey, Kieran, Kessler and Lucille, John, Steve, Traci, and Mike, along with many nieces and nephews whom he cared for deeply. Each held a meaningful place in his heart.

An evening visitation will be held on Thursday December 11, 2025 from 4PM until 7PM at Cress Funeral Service, 1310 Emerald Terrace, Sun Prairie, WI 53590. Following the evening visitation, a masonic service will take place at 7PM. A mass of Christian burial will take place at 11AM on Friday, December 12, 2025 at St. Albert the Great Catholic Church, 2420 Saint Albert the Great Drive, Sun Prairie, WI 53590. A visitation at the church will take place from 10AM until the time of mass.  The service can be attended virtually at https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=e270e3d0-1d6e-4e56-b334-9b392b484707

A heartfelt thank-you goes to the extraordinary medical teams who cared for Dave with compassion, dignity, and respect. The family extends their deepest gratitude to the providers and staff at the VA Hospital, UW Health, and Agrace Hospice, especially Dr. Kelly, Dr. Schmidt, Dr. Rajguru, Dr.Callander, Ally, Olivia, Kiley, Vicki, and Solange. Their kindness and guidance supported Dave and his family through some of their most difficult days, and they will always be remembered with profound appreciation.

Dave leaves behind a legacy of service, loyalty, laughter, and love. His life shaped his family's values, their strength, and the way they see the world. And as he always reminded them, and as they hold close now:

"We're the lucky ones."

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

1310 Emerald Terrace, Sun Prairie

(608) 837-9054