Obituary for M. David Koukkari

Melvin David Koukkari, born 4/28/1943, passed away on Monday 7/16/2018 at the age of 75 after incurring a stroke. Dave struggled for several years with dementia.

Preceded in death by parents, Victor Koukkari and Laina (Polkki).

He is survived by wife, Sharon (Liubakka, married 8/26/1967); five children, Kristina Koukkari (Rob Mason), Marcus (Danielle) Koukkari, Nathan (Amy) Koukkari, Melissa Koukkari and Kathryn (Brett) Lahren; 13 lucky grandchildren, Annika, Bella Koukkari-Mason, Lydia, Miles, Avery, Mia Himes, Michael, Colin Koukkari, Davin, Camryn, Dax, Ada Johnson, Wells Lahren; sister, Jean (Floyd) Tuominen; brother, Marvin (Karen) Koukkari; and many beloved nieces and nephews, as well as many brothers and sisters in faith.

Dave was a man of integrity. He was steadfast and could be relied on even in challenging circumstances. He had the back of his family at all times. As his children can attest he could be tough, but also fair and incredibly kind. The day before his stroke, he gazed at his newest grandson Wells with such loving kindness. We had the real Dave back for a moment!

At 39, he built the family home, a fact his wife brags about when anyone new comes to their home - still amazed!

He was a teacher in the Robbinsdale schools, then a business man. At Honeywell, he developed into a beloved and respected manager. At review time he’d rate job performance, but also asked people about their lives, their work and life aspirations. He mentored many employees into fulfilling jobs.

At a recent stay in a rehabilitation facility, you could see those qualities reemerge. He asked the staff about their jobs, salary, hours and if they were happy working there. When Dave was discharged, staff came bounding out of rooms to hug him goodbye in a touching acknowledgement of his impact. Their lives mattered to him, even as he dealt with the impact of his health.

He was a teacher, protector, provider, and a man of faith. Truly an honorable man. He will be missed.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 21 at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will precede the service at 10:00 a.m. at Independent Apostolic Lutheran Church, 14000 129th Avenue N. Dayton, MN 55327.