David Edel

David Edel had a beautiful soul, and his spirit left a mark on so many people throughout his lifetime. He was born in New Prague on October 9, 1951, to George and Gretchen Edel (maiden name Richter), the youngest of 3 children. He grew up in Montgomery, graduated from Montgomery-Lonsdale High School, and attended college at the University of Minnesota. Around 1970, he hitched a ride to San Francisco to pursue his spiritual journey. In California he met Carol Gelband, with whom he would marry and bring two sons into this world. 

David grew up hunting and exploring Minnesota with a deep appreciation of nature, fostered by his uncle (and father-figure) Orville Richter. David enjoyed many interests and hobbies, from beekeeping and karate to sailing and swing dancing... not least of which was playing the piano, loving to bring friends and family together for music and sing-alongs. David had a curiosity which fueled his interests in the esoteric, the mystical, and conspiracy theories. He was an avid reader and amassed an impressive library of outstanding books—he even authored and published a book for his sons, entitled Thoughts from Dad. 

David had a storied career in numerous fields, starting multiple businesses of his own. For the last 20 years David created great success doing reverse mortgages, helping many hundreds of seniors stay living in their homes. David was passionate about this work and developed meaningful relationships with his clients, calling each one annually on their birthdays. He consistently ranked high in the top 10 reverse mortgage loan officers in the country. David possessed supernatural powers of productivity and self-discipline—he was truly a master of getting things done. David had an amazing ability to make anybody feel at ease, fitting himself comfortably into any social situation and always ensuring those around him felt their value. David loved nature and meditation, and was a truly caring, heart-centered, sensitive and authentic human being. He was a fantastically loving father and a devoted partner. He put out and received a great amount of love, and his presence on this earth will be missed dearly.

David passed after a long journey with prostate cancer during which he beat a great many odds. David is survived by his sons, Joshua and Micah, and his wife and partner of 22 years, Valerie Kratz. He is survived also by Carol Edel, and his nieces and nephews Stephanie, Scott, Troy, and Stacey. David is preceded in death by his parents and two older siblings, Susan and Rick.

A celebration of life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 12, at Richter Woods—35674 173rd Ave, Montgomery, MN, 56069. All are welcome!