David Arthur

Korth

David A. Korth, 77, of Lake Mills, passed away on Monday, August 3, 2026, at UW Hospital in Madison.

Born on September 21, 1948, in Watertown, WI, he was the son of the late Arthur and Nina (Drescher) Korth. Dave graduated from Lake Mills High School in 1966 and later attended UW-Madison. On December 27, 1970, he married Barbara E. Bankord; though they later divorced, they remained close friends until her passing.

As a fourth-generation farmer, Dave dedicated his life to working the Korth family farm, which remained in the family for 120 years (1880–2000). In 2000, he sold the land to Jefferson County to establish Korth Park. He loved farming, being outdoors, mowing grass, and collecting IH Farmall tractors. His collection was frequently showcased on his new farm and in local parades. Dave also loved attending thresherees, auctions, flea markets and car, toy, and steam shows, where his "once a friend, always a friend" attitude helped him form lifelong bonds.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur (d. 1965) and Nina (d. 1978).

He is survived by his sister, Alice (Glenn) Johnson of Lake Mills; niece, Kristen (Scott) Helms of Hartford and their children, Brady and Brock; nephew, Brent (Natalie) Johnson of Lake Mills and their children, August, Maxwell, and James; as well as many extended family members and close friends.

Following Dave's wishes, a private burial will take place at Rock Lake Cemetery.

A celebration of life will be held at Korth Park on Sunday, September 6, 2026, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to wear tractor apparel (Red) and bring stories to share.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Korth Family Scholarship, c/o Lake Mills Area Community Foundation (LMACF), P.O. Box 33, Lake Mills, WI 53551. The family extends their sincere thanks to the staff at Lake Mills Health Services for their exceptional care and therapy program.

www.claussenfuneralhome.com