David Carstensen

David Alan Carstensen was born on August 5, 1983. David was the son of Alan and Gail (Richter) Carstensen. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith and graduated from Hastings High School in 2002. David graduated from Dakota County Technical College in Rosemount, MN and Southeast Technical College in Red Wing, MN with degrees in carpentry. David loved to work and stay busy. He couldn't wait for the first snowfall; that meant skiing and hockey season. He loved the cold weather. He was his father's son; a hard worker, very talented with his hands and a gentle heart. He gave the biggest hugs, always said 'I love you' and had a wonderful smile, just like his mother. He loved life and never wanted it to end. On August 5, his 25th birthday, he was called to be an iron worker, how delighted and proud he was that his life was moving in the direction he longed for. David was one who faced challenges head on and lived life as if he was invincible; he had no fear. He fought the unbearable obstacles he was given on earth with all he had, but God said to David, 'Come home with me and you will be at peace forever.' And David said, 'I am ready to come home.' The angels called for David much sooner than we had planned, but we will all brave the bitter grief and know he's in a better place, a place that David thinks is even better than winter. Surviving family includes parents, Alan siblings, Todd (Kari Lynn) Carstensen of Chanhassen, MN, Nickey (Sean) Schumacher of Farmington, MN, Colleen, Matthew & Andrew of Hastings, MN; nephews, Max nieces, Kaylee, Kyra & Lola. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Wayne & Ruth Carstensen and William 'Butch' & Dory Richter.