David A. Koelling, 71, rural Fertile, MN, died Tuesday, November 6, 2018, at his home from natural causes.

David Alvin Koelling was born in Fertile, Minnesota on June 3, 1947, to Alvin and Jean (Vickery) Koelling. David grew up and attended school in Fertile. He graduated from Fertile-Beltrami High School in 1965. He then farmed dairy cattle with his dad until he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He served 3 years in Military. Upon his return home, he returned to farming cattle with his dad. After a couple of years he purchased his own farm about 3 miles from his parent's farm. David continued to raise beef cattle and raised small grains for several years. When his father retired from farming, both David and his father went to work for Massey-Ferguson in Crookston Minnesota. Dave later returned to farm work, working for local farmers. David met & married Joanne in 1976 and adopted her son Timothy, with whom he became very close. He then went to work for New Flyer of America in Crookston, from which he retired after 16 years of service.

After his retirement, David enjoyed watching and feeding wildlife, tinkering with projects in his basement, books, antiques, riding his 4-wheeler, and working with his tractor.

Memorial Service: 2:00PM Thursday, November 15, 2018, at Erikson-Vik-Ganje Funeral Home, Fertile.

Visitation: One hour before the service at the funeral home.

Burial: Maple Lake Lutheran Cemetery, rural Fertile.