David Fjellman

David Allen Fjellman “Diamond Dave” 4/1/1955 – 1/29/2026

“70” years young. Dave enjoyed being an “April Fool’s Baby”. A special day every year to celebrate his love of humor, puns and shenanigans. For those who knew Dave, they knew his sense of humor was clever, quick-witted, and genuine.

He was a curious man and his breadth of knowledge made it easy for him to relate to people from all walks of life. He knew a little bit (un petit peu) of several languages and particularly enjoyed speaking to people he’d meet in their native language. It was always a joyful, heart-warming interaction to behold. He connected with people because he cared.

His love of music was born at a young age. In his late teens and early 20’s he spent many hours honing his Harmonica skills while meandering about town or in Pheasant Branch Creek Preserve. If a band would allow, he’d excitedly join them on stage for a song or two.

Dave’s curiosity and attention to detail allowed him to fix most anything. He was not only a walking encyclopedia, but also the “go to” guy when something was broken. But steer clear – when he was on a mission it consumed him and he needed his space.

There was little room for slowing down after he retired from American Family Insurance Company as a Systems Analyst. He quickly moved into “America’s Test Kitchen’s” Fandom. He saw an incredible Chocolate Caramel Layer Cake and knew meeting this challenge would bring him joy. It did, and from there his passion for baking grew. His friends and neighbors were grateful beneficiaries – as these goodies had to be shared.

At the end of the day, many contented hours were spent enjoying his front patio with wife Janice and German Shepherd Keeta. He set out two extra chairs to be sure passing friends and neighbors would be inclined to sit a while. He especially loved it when his Granddaughter Lucy came to visit and would be his porch buddy. This attracted the neighbor kids and in those moments time stood still.

At 4:30 P.M. every week-day there was no question where you’d find Dave. He was at his spot at “Diamond Dave’s All-Star Bar” tuned in to Jeopardy. Again, he especially loved sharing this time with his Granddaughter Lucy. A glass of water, a bowl of snacks and time with her “Opa” made it a time to treasure.

Hosting Badger, Packer and Brewer’s parties were the highlight of Dave’s week for many years. Diamond Dave’s All-Star bar welcomed friends, friends of friends, family, and neighbors. They’d celebrate first-downs if they couldn’t celebrate touch-downs.

He was most proud of his children, David and Jennifer. Not just for their many personal accomplishments, but more because he saw them as such decent, kind and caring people. He saw their generosity of spirit and curious natures as the most important characteristics to be celebrated. Their strong values filled him with pride and he enjoyed their company very much. Not to mention, their intelligent sense of humor.

He met his wife, Janice, in their home town of Middleton when they were both “just babies”. Two kids that grew up and grew old together, enjoying many camping trips, Fourth of July celebrations and traveling to warmer climates during Wisconsin’s long winters. They recently celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary and called it their 50th because they dated for five years before getting married in 1981.

He is survived by his wife, Janice, Son David (Natalie), “Darling Dawdling Daughter” Jenny, Sisters Michelle Hess (Jim) and Carole Farley (Joe), In-Laws Larry & Mary Gold, Bob & Vicki Gold, Mary & Dave Miller, Ben & Karina Gold, his “favorite ex-brother-in-law” Denny Adler, Granddaughter Lucinda Fjellman, and many incredible Nieces and Nephews.

He was preceded in death by his Parents Dave & Jean Fjellman, Infant Brother Robert, Sister Janice Andrea. In-laws Bob & Eileen Gold, Brother Mike Gold, Sister Suzie Gold, and Infant Niece Sara Beth Miller.

Dave faced his Cancer diagnosis and challenges with hope, strength, and humor. Leaving the planet wasn’t a choice he made, but he accepted his time had come and thanked all those around him for their care and love.

He would want to extend special thanks to his Oncologist, UW Hospital’s Dr. Natalia Uboha and her Nurse Practitioner, Stacy.

Celebrating The Life & Times of Diamond Dave

North Street Cabaret, 610 North Street, Madison, WI.

Sunday March 1, 2026 from 1:00 to 4:00

Open Mic / Open House – bring an instrument and share a favorite song. Dave would love this.

Delicious Desserts, teas, and coffee will be served. Some of Dave’s favorite recipes will be lovingly prepared by his family and friends.

If you have a Hawaiian Shirt in your closet, this would be a good day to wear it in honor of Dave’s love for his extensive Hawaiian shirt collection.

Please join us in celebrating this unique and passionate character. He will be greatly missed by those who knew him. Peace.

“Forward, never straight.” – Dave