David L. Gurke

February 23, 1946 - February 15, 2022

David L. Gurke, 75, of Genoa, formerly of rural Elgin, passed away Tuesday evening, Feb. 15, 2022, in his home. He was born Feb. 23, 1946, in Elgin the son of Leslie and Helen (Tamms) Gurke. David was a member of the 1964 Class of Burlington Central High School. He worked the family farm for many years before beginning a career of driving trucks. He drove for Elgin Salvage, Elgin Paper, Hines Lumber, and Preston Trucking among others. David married Darlene M. Campbell on May 17, 1969. He served on the Pingree Grove/Countryside Fire Department for 28 years. He was also a lifelong member of the St. John United Church of Christ in Harmony. Surviving is his wife, Darlene; a son, Eric (Tammy) Gurke of Genoa; a sister, Dorothy Gurke of Elgin; and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Leslie and Helen Gurke; a sister and brother-in-law, Barbara (Alvin) Markham; and a niece, Beth. A Celebration of Life Service for David will be at 2 PM Saturday, Feb. 26 at St. John United Church of Christ, 11821 E. Grant Hwy in Hampshire. Visitation will be at the church from 1-2 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in David’s memory should be directed to the church or the Pingree Grove/Countryside Fire Dept.