David Leo Krause

David Leo Krause left this world far too soon on April 14, 2026, at the age of 35.

Born and raised in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, David entered the world destined to live life at full speed! From the time he was a little boy, it was clear that sitting still was never part of his plan. He was constantly climbing, jumping, and exploring, often imagining himself as Indiana Jones on his next great adventure. One of his favorite sayings, borrowed from the movie Johnny Tsunami, was “Go Big or Go Home,” a phrase that perfectly reflected the way he lived. Whether he was taking on a new challenge, mastering a sport or encouraging those around him to embrace life more fully, David never did anything halfway.

After graduating from Badger High School, David made Milwaukee his home. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Along the way, he formed long-lasting friendships and surrounded himself with a community who came to know and appreciate his adventurous spirit, loyalty and larger-than-life personality.

No matter where life took him, David stayed true to his adventurous spirit that defined him from an early age. Athletic and endlessly energetic, David loved the outdoors and gravitated toward extreme sports that offered excitement, challenge and an adrenaline rush. Snowboarding, wakeboarding, and skateboarding became second nature to him. David was always testing his limits and encouraging others to join him along the way. His fearless spirit, contagious enthusiasm and willingness to take the leap, when no one else would, left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Music was one of David’s greatest passions. An exceptionally talented drummer who followed in his father’s footsteps, he possessed a remarkable ear for music and, at a much deeper level, a genuine love and gift for creating it. Countless hours were spent behind his drum kit and computer producing cool rhythms, riffs and original compositions. David’s excitement for a new creation rarely followed a schedule. Family and friends often found themselves receiving a late night or very early morning call to listen to his latest beat. Music was more than a hobby for David; it was one of the ways he shared a piece of himself with the people he loved.

Above all, David loved people fiercely and without reservation. He had the ability to instantly connect with people and make them feel welcome, accepted and understood. Whether someone knew him for years or just met him, they often walked away feeling like they had gained a friend. David saw the good in everyone. He led with kindness and gave his time, love and loyalty freely. His love for animals reflected his gentle, kind nature. There was simply not a mean bone in his body. His authenticity and ability to see only the best in others left an impression that will never fade.

The loss of David is immeasurable. The number of lives he touched, friendships he nurtured and hearts he changed cannot be fully captured in words. While his time here was far too short, the love he shared and the memories he created will continue to live on in all who knew him.

David was a beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend. He is survived by his loving parents, Kevin and Diane Krause; his sisters, Ashley Krause and Brooke Krause; his grandmother, Sanae “Mickey” Sischo; his grandmother, Jo Ann Krause; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives and friends who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Norman Leo Sischo, and his grandfather, Ronald “Reno” Krause.

David will be deeply missed, forever loved and never forgotten.

A Celebration of David’s Life will be held on Sunday, June 28, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Lodge Geneva National on the Aspen Patio.

Family, friends and all whose lives were touched by David are invited to join in celebrating his life. We welcome all who knew David, as well as those wishing to support his family, to gather in remembrance, share stories and celebrate the remarkable life that he lived.

In lieu of flowers or other expressions of sympathy, the family has asked that donations be made in David’s memory to Fellow Mortals.

Contributions received by the family will be forwarded to the organization in support of its work.