David Joseph Underly

January 2, 1940 ~ June 23, 2025 (age 85)

David Joseph Underly, age 85, of Town of Moscow, Hollandale, formerly of Mishawaka, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Monday June 23, 2025 after a 6 month long illness.

Born on January 2, 1940, in South Bend, Indiana, Dave was the beloved son of Roy Joseph Underly and Eleanor Skarupinski Underly. He grew up on the family farm, where he developed a lifelong love of nature, animals, and hard work. From these humble beginnings, David’s determination and athletic talent carried him far—he earned a Division I athletic scholarship to Western Michigan University, where he competed in the high jump and pole vault. He began his professional career as a high school drafting teacher in Niles Michigan, earned a Masters in Business Administration from Western Michigan, and eventually worked and retired from Unilever in Chicago Illinois. 

Dave had an enduring passion for history, the outdoors, animals, and connecting with people. He was a man of quiet wisdom, generous spirit, and boundless curiosity. Whether he was watching birds, walking in a state park, reading about the Civil War, watching the western channel on TV, or swapping stories with friends and neighbors, Dave brought thoughtfulness and warmth to everything he did.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Jane; his devoted son John; beloved daughter-in-law Jill; and his cherished grandchildren, David and Rachel, all of Moscow, Wisconsin. He is survived by his sister Barbara (Reg) Grimm of South Bend, Indiana, brother Tom (Charlene) Underly of Chicago, and many nieces and nephews, especially Mike (Lynn Anthony) Grimm of Pagosa Springs Colorado, Pam Grimm of Scottsdale, Arizona, Katrina (Tom McGovern) of Granger, Indiana, and Scott (Jennifer) Grimm of Mishawaka, Indiana. He is preceded in death by his parents, and a special nephew, Kenny Grimm. 

David’s legacy is one of love, integrity, and a deep appreciation for the natural world and the human spirit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A private family gathering will be held to celebrate his life. The family is grateful to Upland Hills Health and Mineral Point Health for the care they provided Dave these last six months. 

Saether Funeral Service of Blanchardville, WI assisted the family. Online memories and condolences can be shared with the family at saetherfuneralservice.com or on the Saether Funeral Service Facebook page. Cards can be sent to: Family of David Underly, C/O Saether Funeral Service, PO Box 93, Blanchardville WI 53516.

7/27/2025 djb

https://www.saetherfuneralservice.com/obituary/David-Underly