David Jon Droog, 58, of Owatonna, was received into the loving arms of his Savior on Tuesday, July 14 surrounded by family and friends. David was born December 23, 1950, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, the son of Vernon and Beverly (Goff) Droog. He graduated from Mankato High School in 1969, the University of Wisconsin in 1976, and Louisville Presbyterian Seminary in 1980. David was ordained as a Minister of Word and Sacrament in January 1981. David was a member of the Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area and worked as an Interim Ministry Specialist serving churches in the Southern Minnesota and Wisconsin area for over 28 years. He was united in marriage to Diane Jansky on August 14, 1976 in La Crosse, WI. David was passionate in his belief that Jesus is the Son of God, and was raised from the dead so that we may have eternal life with him. He was privileged to have spent his life''s work sharing this story with others. He was dedicated to providing each congregation compassionate guidance and pastoral leadership in establishing their identity and moving toward their mission. David''s kind nature and joyful spirit seemed to always bring out the best in others. He was a tireless and faithful servant in all his endeavors. In life, David took delight in its simple and wondrous pleasures; holding a new baby, reading stories to his children, gathering around the table at family celebrations, a warm afternoon on the golf course with friends, the view of the garden from the deck, a good conversation over a cup of coffee. He will be remembered for being a loving husband and dad, patient listener, thoughtful questioner, and willing helper. Despite living with a chronic disease, David always maintained a positive outlook on the gift of life and moved forward everyday with energy and imagination. His faithful living and inner strength provided an exemplary role model to his family and friends. Though he will be greatly missed, his spirit will live on through all the lives he touched. David is survived by his beloved wife Diane J. Droog of Owatonna; one son, Jonathan D. Droog of Tampa, Florida and daughter, Katharine D. Droog (fianc John Dagle) of Mankato, Minnesota, his mother, Beverly J. Droog of La Crosse, Wisconsin; four brothers, Daniel Droog, of La Crosse; Michael Droog (Patricia) of La Crosse, Mark Droog (Julie) of Claremont, Minnesota and Matthew Droog (Nancy) of Waseca, Minnesota; his parents-in-law, Jerry and JoAnne Jansky of LaCrosse, brother-in-law, Dave Jansky, of La Crosse, sister-in-law Sandy Davison (Tim) of Hokah, Minnesota and many nieces and nephews. David was preceded in death by his father, Vernon L. Droog. A memorial service will be held at The Associated Church, 800 Havana Road, Owatonna, MN on Saturday, July 18, 2009 at 10:30 AM with Dr. Ronald D. Wilson officiating. Visitation will be on Saturday, July 18, 2009 from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM in the church. In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to The Associated Church and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Visitation:
07/18/2009 09:00
07/18/2009 10:30
Service:
07/18/2009 10:30