David B Schlichting

David B. Schlichting, age 84, was born on October 29, 1941, in Wausau, Wisconsin. A lifelong learner, teacher, artist, scientist, entrepreneur, and outdoorsman, he embraced life with curiosity, creativity, and humor.

David’s love of learning led him to Concordia Preparatory School and Northwestern Preparatory School, graduating in 1960; Bethany Lutheran College, graduating in 1962; and Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he studied Social Studies, Biology, and Chemistry. He earned his bachelor’s degree in 1964 and returned to complete a master’s degree in Biology in 1969.

During a summer chemistry class at Mankato State in 1966, David met Diane Marie Wilt. They married on August 31, 1968, in Lamberton, Minnesota, and shared more than five decades filled with love, family, travel, creativity, and adventure.

David taught high school biology and chemistry in Edgerton, Wisconsin, where he enjoyed sharing his knowledge and encouraging students to explore the world around them. After retiring in 1998, he devoted more time to watercolor painting and photography, creating artwork for shows and galleries, attending workshops, and capturing the beauty around him.

His curiosity later led him back to science. In 2008, he became involved with BrainWave Optimization and founded Brain Training of the Northwoods. He valued the opportunity to help clients and sold the business in October 2013.

David and Diane enjoyed traveling throughout the United States, square dancing, and exploring thrift stores and auctions, especially in search of books for his collection. He also loved the outdoors, including hunting, fishing, and walking in the woods. Sharing these activities with family and friends created many lasting memories.

David enjoyed meeting new people, making friends, and spending time with those he cared about. He loved music, laughter, and karaoke, especially singing “Puff, the Magic Dragon” for his daughter, EvaMarie. Give David a microphone and the words to a song, and he was ready to sing.

He will be remembered for his inquisitive mind, creativity, sense of humor, love of learning, and enthusiasm for life. His life brought together science and art, teaching and business, outdoor adventures and joyful gatherings with family and friends.

He is survived by his daughter, EvaMarie (Schlichting) Bybee; honorary granddaughters Becky and Stephany; sister Mae Morien; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends from Minocqua, Madison, and beyond.

David was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Diane Marie (Wilt) Schlichting, who passed away on May 20, 2022; his parents, Eva (Gower) Schlichting and Louis Schlichting; and his brother, Douglas Schlichting.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Calvary Lutheran Church in Minocqua, Wisconsin. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., with a luncheon following the service in the church fellowship hall. Family and friends are invited to gather and celebrate David’s life.

His legacy lives on in the students he taught, the people he helped, the art and photographs he created, and the many lives he touched.

Those wishing to honor David’s memory may consider “paying it forward” through an act of kindness; following his example of generosity, love, and support for others.