David Walter Whipps

David Walter Whipps, age 72 of Le Center, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at his home on October 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

The son of Walter and Vivian (Antonsen) Whipps, Dave was born on November 22, 1952, in St. Peter, MN. He attended Le Center schools and following his school days decided to enter the work force. He began his journey working a variety of jobs before he discovered a true passion behind the wheel. His trucking career took off with Komatz Construction in St. Peter and Johnson Bros in Waseca. Eventually, he turned his passion into a proud enterprise, purchasing his own truck and founding Whipps Trucking; a venture he ran with dedication until his retirement. On April 30, 1977, he was married to Mary Kay Tuma at St. Mary Catholic Church in Le Center, Minnesota and their journey began.

Dave had two true loves in life: his family and fishing — and if he could combine the two, even better. When winter rolled around and the lakes froze over, you could bet he’d be out there on the ice, most likely on Mille Lacs Lake, relaxing in the icehouse with the “crew”, earning the name Winter Kill. Ice fishing wasn’t just a pastime for Dave — it was tradition, peace, and a chance to teach his sons that the fish bite best in the cold. But nothing brought Dave more joy than having his whole family under one roof. That’s why Thanksgiving was his favorite holiday; often saying it was the one day that came with no strings attached, just time to slow down, be together, and soak it all in.

For Dave, joy came in simple moments — like long car rides with his dog, Maggie, beside him and both of them content just to be going somewhere together. Simple in his ways but never short on opinions, Dave had a personality that was as honest as it was unforgettable. Dave’s presence will linger in the quiet moments, the well-worn paths, and the memories that make us smile.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Mary Kay; sons, Andy (Jessica) Whipps and Steve (Bridget) Whipps; grandchildren, Courtney (Jacob Duque) Whipps, Caleb (Lauren Houn), Sophie Whipps, Taelynn Whipps, Nora Whipps, Brody Whipps, and Josie Whipps; sisters, Kathy (Charles) Erkel and Linda (Arnie) Kolander along with nieces, nephews, other relatives and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; mother and father-in-law, Marion and Bill Tuma; and brother-in-law, Randy Tuma.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at St Mary Catholic Church in Le Center, MN. Dave's family will greet guests at a visitation held two hours prior to the service at the church. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Le Center, Minnesota.