David John Holtorf

David J. Holtorf passed away suddenly due to a medical emergency at his work on Monday, March 16th, at the age of 63. He leaves behind his loving wife, three children, and nine grandchildren.

David was born to Jack and Karol (Karau) Holtorf and raised in Rochester, MN. He later moved with his wife and young family to Byron, MN.

Dave was a family man through and through. He was the first person anyone called when they needed a hand, whether fixing something that was broken, hauling something heavy (or broken,) or just being there when things got hard. He was always ready to jump in and help, not for the recognition or fanfare; he did it because this is how he loved his people.

To his loving wife of 38 years and three children, Dave was steadfast, always working hard to make a good life for them. He lived by example: get up early, work hard, do what needs to be done, and take care of your people... and hopefully have a few good adventures along the way.

To his grandkids, Dave was the best sort of Grandpa anyone could ask for. When the grandkids were little, he would get down on the floor to play and wrestle with them. As they got older he went to dance performances, went to games, took them out snowmobiling, fixed everything they could find that might need fixing, got Kwik Trips treats with them (so many treats) and was always just a phone call away. He was always ready for an adventure, no matter how big or small, even after a long day at work. Grandpa meant the world to them.

Dave was a thirty-year employee of the City of Rochester at the Rochester Public Utilities Power Plant. He started at the ground level when his family was young, eventually working his way up to Chief Engineer at the time of his death. He took pride in his work for the City.

Dave always showed up for his people, no matter the need or the hour. His sleeves were always rolled up, his heart was always ready to serve his loved ones, and his junk food stash was always full for his grandkids. He leaves a big void and will be missed dearly by all who knew him. His world was small but he was big in that world.

Dave is survived by his wife, Lori, and his children, Starr and husband Brent, Josh and wife Marian, and Brooke (widowed). His grandchildren, Avery, Ella, Levi, Lauren, Ethan, Myla, Madeline, Jack, and Mia. His two sisters, Angela and husband Bruce, and June and husband Gregg. His mother-in-law Carolyn and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents Jack and Karol.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at Rochester Assembly, 4240 18th Ave. NW, Rochester, MN. Visitation will be held 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM Monday, March 23, 2026 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN and one hour prior to the service at the church.