David John “D.J.” Schiavo

He was born on Oct. 6, 1945, in Crystal Falls, to Victor and Emerald (Johnson) Schiavo. After graduating from Crystal Falls High School in 1964, he and Joan (Sjostrom) married and moved to Milwaukee, where he started a 5-year plumbing apprenticeship. He received his journeyman license and was a supervisor for the last few years.

In 1978, they bought Bauman’s Sport and Marine and moved back to Crystal Falls. They ran the shop as D.J.’s Sport and Marine for 31 years, retiring in 2009.

Dave could fix anything and was often called upon to fabricate an item for work, family and neighbors. He loved being with family and friends. No one was a stranger for long.

Dave and Joan bought a home in Naples, Fla., where they enjoyed many winters. He was a member of the Crystal Falls Rotary Club, the Iron River Elks and the Moose Lodge of Naples.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Joan; two sons, Rick and Michael (Irene); a granddaughter, Brooke (Brad) Uhazie; two grandsons, Brett (Erica) Schiavo and Glenn (Kourtney) Schiavo; five great-grandchildren; a sister and brother-in-law, Betty and Cal Soderberg; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Dave was preceded in death by a sister, Virjean; and his in-laws, Herb and Ellen Sjostrom.

Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 27, at the United Lutheran Church in Crystal Falls.

A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. at the church, with Pastor D.J. Rasner officiating.

Memorials may be made in his memory.

Condolences to the family of David John Schiavo may be expressed online at www.nashfuneralhome.net.

The family has entrusted the Nash Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Crystal Falls with the arrangements.