David J. “Dave” Ravnik after a long 21-year battle with cancer, found peace on January 1, 2026, surrounded by his family. Dave was born in Milwaukee on June 12, 1949, a son of Joseph and Bernice Ravnik. He was a diligent worker as a Warehouse Supervisor in the food service industry throughout his working years. On October 19, 1974, he married his best friend, Shirley Sonnenburg. Together they made their home in Lannon and raised their two children there. What started being a starter home, Dave took great pride in remodeling with the help of his friend Dan and family members, turning it into the family forever home. Dave loved traveling. In between rounds of Chemo, he found the energy to travel with Shirley to see Washington DC, Paris, England, and other destinations. He was an avid sports buff, who enjoyed cheering on a good Brewer, Packer, or Bucks game. He also enjoyed playing golf and was a huge fan of ESPN. In retirement, he went on to drive a school bus, a job he discovered he enjoyed and continued to do until June of 2025. Dave loved spending time with his wife, kids, grandkids, and friends. He was the king of dad jokes, had a quick wit and unique sense of humor. His memory will be cherished in the hearts of those who knew him.
Dave will be dearly missed by his wife Shirley; kids, Amanda, and Samuel “Sam” (Kayla) Ravnik; grandchildren, Nathan, Angelicia, Emerson, Vincent, and Anthony; sister, Denise (Mark) Patsches; sister-in-law, Raeann McQueen; and best buds, Mannix, Vic, and Dan. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents and brothers-in-law, Bill Sonnenburg and Steve McQueen.
The visitation for David will be held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, from 9:30AM until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11AM at St. James Catholic Parish, W220 N6588 Town Line Rd., Menomonee Falls, WI. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the St. James Catholic Parish are appreciated. Private burial will be held at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.
David’s family would like to send a special thank you to his greatest buddies, Mannix, Vic, and Dan for their dedication, support, and great friendship throughout the years. Also, to Dr. Oesterling and Dr. Alqwasmi for their attentive care and compassion of Dave throughout his treatments.