David “Dave” Virgil Gaber, 60, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on June 25, 2025.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory. Private family burial will be at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church Cemetery.

Dave was born on October 10, 1964, in Dubuque, the son of William “Bill” and Carol (Knockel) Gaber. From a young age, he loved spending time outdoors and could often be found exploring nature and building forts with his friends. He graduated from Marquette High School in 1984. Dave married Marilyn Ernst, and together they had three children before later separating. He proudly served his country in the Iowa Army National Guard for four years. Over the years, Dave held various jobs, primarily working in sales. His passion for the outdoors remained a constant throughout his life, leading him to become a longtime member of the Sportsman’s Club. In his later years, he found joy in coin collecting and caring for his beloved pets.

Dave is survived by his mom, Carol Gaber, children Michael (Clayton Tschirhart) Gaber, Ryan and Brittany (Helbing) Gaber and Noah (Julieta Rangel Gomez) Gaber, grandson Otto Gaber, siblings Joe (Amy) Gaber and Michele (Donnie) Grant, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his dad, William “Bill” Gaber.

In honor of Dave’s love for animals, please donate to the Dubuque Regional Humane Society in his memory.