David Alan Krzyston passed on in peace, his wife Susan at his side, September 18, 2026. He began home hospice care in January 2025, and then was transferred on September 16 of this year to the Horizon Hospice Center, Mequon. David and Susan met in 2006 at the Tai Chi Center of Milwaukee and, at age 53, each soon became the love of their lives. They made their home in Milwaukee’s Riverwest neighborhood.

Born December 28, 1953, to the late Bolelaus “Ben” and Esther Kryzston (nee Lubinski), David is survived by his wife Susan Modder. He is further survived by his brothers Mike (Sue) and Terry (Ellen) and sisters Marilyn (John) Schellinger and Marian (Jeff) Nelson. He was preceded in death by his brother Ronnie and sister-in-law Debbie.

David was a lifetime Milwaukee resident. His education at Boys’ Technical High School and courses at Milwaukee Area Technical School influenced his choice to pursue careers in industrial business marketing and sales. Initially, as a private consultant serving startup businesses, he later held positions at Hydraulic Service & Mfg. Inc., managing accounts, sales and services in the Chicago metro area and later a position in marketing and sales at JMB Associates, LLC.

Full-time care for his parents at the end of their lives and his keen interest in chemistry, physiology and research led David to pursue, at age 56, a Bachelor of Science – Nursing degree at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. He distinguished himself by graduating in 2013 on the Dean’s List. He then held nursing positions at Saint Francis Hospital’s Mental Health and Addiction, and at the Jewish Home and Care Center’s Rehabilitation. He engaged fully with his wife, guiding and supporting her as they cared for her mother and brother at the end of their lives.

A devoted husband to Susan, David offered her unending love, affection, joy and wisdom. Awed by the natural world and given an adventurous spirit, David and Susan explored Michigan’s Upper Peninsula near the Modder family cabin in the Hiawatha National Forest. David shared his love of Jamaica with Susan, beginning with their 2012 honeymoon. In previous years, his 30-some annual trips meant staying with “the locals.” He felt it a second home: the spirit, the music, the hospitable culture and the island’s natural beauty.

Like many in the medical field, David became immersed in studying the intersection of science and faith. He continued his studies independently focusing on emerging nutrition and well-being research which helped him navigate his own diagnosis of prostate cancer. He tended his uncompromised faith in Jesus yet also adhered to the ancient wisdom of Taoism, based on the teachings of Lao Tzu.

David, an advanced practitioner of Tai Chi for over 40 years, was also an avid golfer. In both he cultivated mindfulness, alignment and relaxation. He especially enjoyed the camaraderie of being a member of the Grant Park Men’s Club.

David’s commanding presence was grounded in a gentle soul. Known for his quick wit and keen observations, he would often advise to “keep your eyes on the horizon”-- the Tai Chi way to stay anchored, open, confident and ready for whatever comes toward you.

A Memorial Gathering will be held Sunday, October 18, 2026, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Urban Ecology Center, Riverside Park, 1500 E. Park Place, Milwaukee, WI.