David C. Bremel, 71, passed away at WFH – All Saints on March 2, 2011 after a courageous battle with leukemia
He was born in Racine on August 7, 1939, the son of the late Herman and Viola (nee: Bean) Bremel. On November 20, 1971, he married Dawn Marie (nee: Olsen) Bartz.
As Organist, Choral Director and Pianist, David received his early training at the Chicago Conservatory College of Music, earning a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Piano Performance.
While at the conservatory, he was a guest artist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
David started working on a doctorate in music at Northwestern University before obtaining teaching credentials which began his 30 year teaching career with the Racine unified school district as a vocal music specialist.
David’s teaching career covered a wide range of experience in piano and vocal music from elementary to college level.
David worked with the Racine Chorale as both accompanist and conductor for 17 years. The Chorale, under David’s direction, performed many classical and popular vocal favorites including an original composition by David entitled “The Magnificat,” which is in the Library of Congress.
He also was well known as a piano and organ soloist in the Racine and Kenosha area as well as a guest and substitute organist to numerous churches.
David was director of music at Mount Pleasant Lutheran Church for 12 years and later went on to share his musical gifts at Atonement Lutheran Church in various capacities including choir director, organist and cantata director for 27 years.
David had a rare gift to be both an accomplished musician and a dedicated teacher. He was always willing to perform with and for students of all musical abilities, offering endless words of encouragement to his friends and students.
As well as an accomplished musician, David also had a passion for photography, winning many awards for his work.
In addition to his loving wife, Dawn, he is survived by his step-children, Scott (Roseann) Bartz of Racine, Paul Bartz of Milwaukee, Pamela (Michael) Thomey of Kenosha; his granddaughter, Jennifer Tabor of Fort Collins, CO; his brother and sister, William (Judy) Bremel and Florence Straube both of Franksville; as well as nieces, nephews and very dear friends. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Irene Geschke.
Family and friends are invited to meet at Atonement Lutheran Church (2915 Wright Ave.) on Monday, March 7, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. for a service with Rev. Dr. Warren D. Williams and Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuelson officiating. The service will be a celebration of David’s life through music. There will be a visitation in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Sunday from 3:30 – 6:00 p.m. and in the church on Monday from 5- 6 p.m. A private interment will take place at West Lawn Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers memorials have been suggested to the Atonement Lutheran Church Music/Organ Fund.
Dawn and family are extremely grateful to Jill Wanggaard for her constant loving care, and to Dr. Gullberg and Dr. Mullane for their expertise and compassionate care of David.
Debi and Jeff Lehman says
What a wonderful narration to read of a wonderful and giving life. Best to you all in this time of sorrow and loss.
Ken and Jan Mowry says
Our sincere sympathy to Dawn and family. We have lost a brave, faithful man and music will never sound the same again.
Paul Bremel says
Uncle Dave, you leave a huge hole in our hearts that we can only fill with memories. Thank you for the weekends of intellectual conversation, music, dancing, lingonberries, and laughter in your visits here to Door County. The thousands of students, whose lives were enriched by your teaching and your music, will carry on your legacy. Thank you for showing my children how much fun can be had with the addition of music to their lives. I will miss you tremendously. Love, Paul
Debbie Osenga Heaps says
Dawn, I was saddened to hear of Dave's passing. He was such a wonderful man and I really enjoyed singing under him in the choir at Mt Pleasant Lutheran Church. He is directing the choirs of heaven now and will be missed! God Bless you and the family.
craig mckay says
uncle david always had a smile and kind words for me every time i saw him , i wish i had spent more time with him ….life is to short
Vicy Arnold says
My deepest condolences to Dawn and family. I knew "Mr Bremel" from his years at Park High School as well as his time at Atonement. He was a kind, gifted man & he, as well as his talent will be greatly missed.
Rod and Jean Olsen says
Dawn and family, David will always hold a very special place in our hearts. Our prayers are with you. Rod and Jean Olsen
Karen Fraid-Ellenbecker says
Dawn, so very sorry to hear that David has passed away. I am keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Ken & Dee Olsen says
David was such a wonderful addition to our Olsen clan – a talented, gentle man who always tried to make everyone feel comfortable. Rest in peace.
Tom & Heather Fisher says
Dawn and family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We will always remember David’s smile! Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ron Olsen says
Oh Dawn, I was saddened to hear that you lost David. I know it will be difficult to adjust to life without him; but cherish the memories of the time you had together.
Gerry & Gary Lipor says
Please accept our sincerest sympathy for your loss. We are friends of Pam & although miles away, we are thinking of all of you. David certainly had a full life & was very successful with many accomplishments. May he rest in peace.
Elizabeth Steffensen says
Some of my fondest childhood memories are of making music with Mr. Bremel at Mt. Pleasant. I am so thankful to have known him. My thoughts and prayers are with Dawn and his family.
Ginger (Nyboe) Laveau says
I was sorry to hear that David passed away. What a privilege it was for us to have David play at our wedding almost 25 years ago. I can almost see him starting up a choir with my mom in Heaven. My sympathy to you, Dawn, and your family.
Jane Scheef says
Dawn and family, I know this is late, but wanted to let you know how sorry I was to hear of David's passing. He will be missed by many in the community to whom he gave so much. I always enjoyed his cheerful greetings, his kindness and great musicianship. With deepest sympathy, Jane and Allen Scheef
Anonymous says
S. Thompson says
Mr. Bremel was a good teacher and a good person. I am deeply saddened to learn of his passing. The family and friends will always be remembered in my prayers.