David Edward Ehrhardt

David E. Ehrhardt, age 81, of Hampton, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

David was born on June 9, 1945, in Shakopee, Minnesota, to Stanley and Marie Ehrhardt. He spent his early years on the family farm near Bush Lake, where he enjoyed fishing on the lake and spending time outdoors. Later, his family moved to Bloomington, where he graduated from high school.

Not long after graduation, David met the love of his life, Barbara Holstrom, on a blind date. The two immediately hit it off and were married in 1964, beginning a marriage filled with love, adventure, and commitment.

Soon after they were married, David proudly served his country in the United States Army as a traffic analyst. He was stationed in Germany, where Barb joined him, and together they enjoyed traveling throughout Europe and making many lasting memories.

After returning home, David attended Lowell Technical Institute in Massachusetts, where he earned his bachelor's degree in accounting. He went on to build a long and respected career as an auditor for the State of Minnesota.

David and Barb originally settled in Richfield, Minnesota, and then moved to Hampton where they raised their two children, Christopher and Elizabeth. He enjoyed golfing and bowling, and his love of golf continued throughout his life. In retirement, he could often be found on the golf course, eventually playing seven days a week. But his greatest joy was spending time with his family. David was known for his dry sense of humor and his loving nature. He was a devoted husband, a good dad, and a proud grandfather who cherished spending time with his grandchildren, especially snuggling with them in his chair. He may have acted like he didn't like dogs, but he helped care for numerous rescue dogs over the years.

David is survived by his loving wife, Barb; his children, Christopher (Shannon) Ehrhardt and Elizabeth Ehrhardt; his grandchildren, Alexander and Isaac; stepdaughter, Nancy Cummings; Nancy's children, Royce, Morgan, and Dee; his siblings, Donald, Dennis, and Melinda; his best friend, Harold Venness; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Marie Ehrhardt.

A Celebration of David's Life will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion Street, Hastings, MN 55033. A prayer service will begin at 12:00 p.m., followed by a reception.