The Goshen community and the regional financial sector are mourning the sudden passing of David E. Dekker, a highly respected banking executive and dedicated community leader. Dekker died unexpectedly from a previously unknown medical condition on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. He was 48 years old.
As the Head of Consumer Services at Interra Credit Union, Dekker built a professional legacy defined by financial stewardship, institutional integrity, and a profound commitment to the communities he served.
Early Life & Education
Born on June 8, 1977, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to Roger and the late Barbara (Triemstra) Dekker, David’s formative years were grounded in the Midwestern values of hard work, family, and community service. Growing up in a tight-knit family alongside his brother, Mike, these early experiences shaped his later approach to both his professional career and his personal life. He developed a sharp analytical mind and an approachable, team-oriented demeanor that would eventually serve as the foundation for his successful career in consumer banking and financial management.
Career Zenith & Contributions
David Dekker’s professional journey was highlighted by a distinguished tenure of over two decades at Interra Credit Union. Rising to the executive role of Head of Consumer Services, he was instrumental in shaping the credit union’s retail banking strategies, optimizing member experiences, and leading initiatives that expanded financial access for local residents. His expertise in consumer financial behavior and operational leadership helped the institution navigate an evolving economic landscape while maintaining its core mission of member-focused service.
It was also during his impactful tenure at Interra Credit Union where David found his greatest personal joy, meeting his future wife, Stephanie Mishler. The two were married on March 26, 2011, embarking on a partnership grounded in mutual respect, shared community values, and deep family devotion.
Leadership & Affiliations
Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Dekker was a pillar of institutional governance and civic engagement across Elkhart County. His authoritativeness in finance and operational strategy was highly sought after by local non-profits and community organizations. He served with distinction on the Board of Directors for Hubbard Hill, contributing to the strategic oversight of the living community, and was an active board member for the Boys and Girls Club of Middlebury, where he championed youth development programs.
A man of deep faith, David was an engaged and active member of Brenneman Memorial Missionary Church. He generously applied his professional acumen to the church’s finance committee, ensuring that the congregation’s resources were managed with transparency, stewardship, and foresight.
Legacy & Impact
While his professional and civic accolades are numerous, David’s most enduring legacy is his devotion to his family and his vibrant approach to everyday life. He is survived by his wife, Stephanie Dekker of Goshen; his children, Ana (Landon) Story of Mishawaka, and Caleb and Nathaniel Dekker, at home; his father, Roger Dekker of Elkhart; and his brother, Mike (Shannon Gillette) Dekker of Goshen. He was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Dekker.
To those who knew him best, David was a man of delightful routines and spirited passions. He was affectionately known for his spontaneous late-night ice cream runs and his signature habit of ending the day with a bowl of cereal. An active athlete and avid sports enthusiast, he played in a Monday tennis league at Eastlake in Elkhart, enjoyed time on the golf course, and was a fiercely loyal fan of Detroit sports teams and the Denver Broncos. However, his happiest moments were found closer to home—playing roller hockey in the driveway with his children and engaging in highly competitive family game nights, where his good-natured insistence that he “always won” became a cherished family hallmark.
Memorial Services & Tributes
The community is invited to honor David Dekker’s life and legacy.
- Visitation:Â Monday, March 23, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Sugar Grove Church, 58512 Old County Road 17, Goshen, Indiana 46528.
- Funeral Service:Â Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Sugar Grove Church. Pastor Josh Hilty of Brenneman Memorial Missionary Church will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be directed to the Dekker Family Benefit Memorial, ensuring the continuation of the values and support systems David held dear.