David "Dave" Gilbertson

David “Dave” Gilbertson passed away on September 14, 2024. Born May 7, 1945, in Alexandria, Minnesota, Dave graduated from Jefferson Senior High School and attended Alexandria Technical Institute, completing the Diesel Mechanics program. In September of 1966, he married Bonita Olson. He worked briefly in the Twin Cities before returning to Alexandria, where he and Bonita made their home. He worked for 10 years at Bellanca Aircraft before embarking on a 28-year career with ALASD, from where he retired in 2006. After retirement, Dave and Bonita traveled to warm, sunny places and enjoyed time with family and friends at their cabin on Lake Miltona. He enjoyed weekly visits with his brother Tom, sharing sweet treats while drinking coffee. 

Dave had a passion for dirt track racing and was a dedicated racer known for his competitive spirit and love of Mopars. He began racing in 1965, piloting the red and white #40 at Viking Speedway. Later he drove the “The Thunder Pumpkin” #33, in partnership with his best friend Dick Block. His talent was clear as he became a multiple-time point champion and won many races along the way. After retiring from driving, he became the car owner and crew chief for his son Scott, who continued the racing tradition in the #40 for another 16 years. The culmination of his racing career was his induction into the Viking Speedway Hall of Fame. Racing was not just a hobby, it was a cherished family activity, and Dave’s commitment to racing and to Viking Speedway deserves recognition. 

Dave is survived by his wife of 58 years, Bonita; daughter Kristi (Tom) Wenner, and son Scott (Shelley) Gilbertson; grandchildren Brittney (Michael) Rethlake, Cameron Gilbertson, Lily Gilbertson, Sheanne (Ryan) Hediger, and Tessa (Todd) Checovich; six great-grandchildren (and one on the way); brother Tom (Barb) Gilbertson; brother-in-law Randall (Rochelle) Olson; sister-in-law Ginger Olson; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wendell and Myrtle Gilbertson, and a grandson, Tanner Hocum.  

Visitation services for Dave will be held at Anderson Funeral Home and Crematory in Alexandria on September 22, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and again at Calvary Lutheran Church on September 23, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a memorial service beginning at 11:00 AM. 

Dave’s life was a testimony to his love for family, friends, and the exhilarating world of auto racing. His contributions and spirited presence will be deeply missed but forever remembered.