David P. Baukus

David Paul Baukus boarded the Afterlife Express surrounded by loved ones on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at the age of 73. Beloved Husband of Debra (Pikulik) for 46 years; Loving Father of Justin and Jeni Baukus; Dearest Grandfather of Alexandra Chavez; Brother of James (Judy) Baukus; Cherished Uncle to Paul, Mark, and Susan Baukus; Great Uncle to Easton Baukus.

David was born on May 20, 1952 in West Allis, WI to Peter and Ethel Baukus. David graduated from Nathan Hale High School in West Allis before being accepted to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO. He later attended Michigan Technological University where he graduated with a degree in Forestry.

David worked for United Parcel Service for 25 years. Starting as a driver and working his way up to District Customer Service Manager. His greatest achievement was implementing Next Day Air Service in Canada and Europe. In 1996, he accepted a job at Wisconsin Public Service where he worked until his retirement in 2016.

David was a man of many interests and hobbies. He loved sports, particularly baseball. He was an avid Milwaukee Brewers fan his whole life. David also loved the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. David's greatest hobby and passion was railroad history and preservation. He spent his entire life collecting and documenting the history of railroads in Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The Milwaukee Road's passenger train "The Copper Country Limited" held a special place in his heart. David also served on the Board of Directors for the Duluth, South Shore, and Atlantic Railway Historical Society.

David will be remembered for his sense of humor, his laughter, his wisdom, his wit, his outgoingness, his honesty, his stubbornness, and the love and joy he brought to our lives. He had an innate way of leaving an impression on everyone he ever met. He will be sorely missed.

Per David's final wishes, a private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.