David Distad

David Arnold Distad passed away at his home in the morning hours of July 10th 2023. He was born on October 29th 1940 to Arnold and Olvine (Moen) Distad. He was a graduate of Stewartville High School. David started working as a butter maker at the Rock Dell Creamery and later became the manager in 1970. He worked at the creamery for 54 years. He also worked on his family farm part time, planting soy bean and corn crops.

He enjoyed gardening, and worked hard and proudly on the many plants he raised around his farm. He was known for his dedication to his many hosta plants as well as the various perennial gardens around the property. You could also find David growing assorted fruits and vegetables to be enjoyed by his family, especially in his homemade hot apple cider at Christmas time.

David loved animals of all kinds. He was an avid bird watcher, and could be found observing the birds that visited his many bird feeders. Plenty of stray kittens had found a meal from him over the years, but the best example of his love for animals comes in 2010. While driving past his property, he found and rescued 17 puppies that had been abandoned in a ditch. He was quick to call Paws and Claws, who were able to find all the puppies new owners.

Most importantly, David loved his kids and grandkids. He shared with them his love of country-western music, ice cream, and jigsaw puzzles. When the grandkids were old enough, he would ride three- and four-wheeler with them around his land. In visiting him at the creamery, he would make sure they left with an orange push pop in hand. They are left with many fond memories of days shared.

As a member of East St. Olaf church for many years, he supplied the annual lutefisk dinner with fresh coffee he would brew at the creamery. Other interests of his included hunting, trapping and reading.

David was loved by all those that knew him for his kindness and tender heart. At the creamery he would help load feed and would chat with local farmers during Saturday morning coffee.

A celebration of life will be held for him in the fall with more information to come.

If you would like to leave a memorial in David’s honor, please consider planting a tree or donating to Paws and Claws in his name.