David Pike

David Allyn Pike, known to many as Mr. Pike, Coach Pike, or simply Piker, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, at Essentia in Duluth, Minnesota, at the age of 81.

David was born on August 10, 1944, in Ely, Minnesota, to Charles T. Pike and Ora E. Pike, both of whom preceded him in death. He spent most of his childhood in Embarrass, Minnesota, with a few formative years in Maine—experiences that helped shape his steady nature, quiet resilience, and lifelong appreciation for community. Over the last month of his life, David fought with remarkable sisu—the quiet determination and grit that defined him throughout his life. When he was finally diagnosed with cancer, it was simply too much, and he knew it was time to rest. While he was ready for peace, he was also deeply sad to leave this world—especially to leave his beloved Berta and his family. In the days that followed, he was comfortable, lucid, and surrounded by family. He was given the rare gift of time—time for meaningful conversations, heartfelt goodbyes, and moments of laughter. Before he left, he told his children, Tricia and Jeff, that his heart was full. The outpouring of love and messages from friends, former players, students, and loved ones moved him deeply, bringing both tears and smiles. From the moment he chose comfort, David was able to share what his family lovingly describes as the longest and most meaningful Minnesota goodbye—the kind that included stories, laughter, and probably a few opinions.

David attended school in Babbitt, Minnesota, before continuing his education at Ely Junior College and the University of Minnesota Duluth. He dedicated his professional life to education, teaching elementary school in McKinley and Gilbert, Minnesota, and serving as acting principal for a time—roles he filled with fairness, patience, and an ability to command respect without ever raising his voice. Coaching was one of David’s great callings. He coached baseball, basketball, football, and nearly every other sport where kids could be taught and molded—always believing in developing both incredible people as well as excellent athletes. He cared far more about effort and character than the scoreboard, though he appreciated a good win. A special joy was coaching his grandson Noah’s Little League baseball team. In recognition of his impact, he was inducted into the Hall of Honor by MN Basketball Coaches Association. In retirement, Dave worked at the Wilderness Golf Course which he loved. He was a member of the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Congregational President, Elder, and Choir.

David’s sisu showed most clearly in his devotion to his wife. In recent years, he cared for Berta through the incredible challenges of dementia. It was not easy, and it was often exhausting— but he never gave up. He showed up every day with patience, love, and unwavering commitment, continuing to care for her despite how difficult it became. David was known for being respectful, kind, calm, and quietly stubborn, with deep grit and enduring sisu. He had a dry, quick, and unpredictable sense of humor, often delivered with perfect timing and a straight face. He loved wintergreen mints, strong coffee, a good Finnish biscuit, and puzzles that didn’t give up too easily. When he wasn’t mentoring kids or family, he could often be found working on his beloved ’67 Chevy—occasionally fixing it, occasionally just admiring it.

Family was David’s greatest pride. He was deeply proud of how close his family was and especially loved watching his grandchildren grow, taking quiet joy in who they were becoming.

He is survived by his wife, Roberta Pike; his daughter, Tricia Shuck (Scott), and their son, Noah Shuck (Lauren); his son, Jeff Pike (Angie), and their daughters, Carissa Pohl (Carter) and Shaylene Pike., his sister-in-law, Barb Hegg (David), nephews, Jason Hegg (Kelly) and son Carter, and AJ Hegg (Cara) and sons Anders and Levi, and aunt Lorraine Jarve.

Preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Cheryl Aho. 

David passed peacefully, surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of quiet leadership, steady kindness, fierce devotion to family, and more than a few groan-worthy jokes that will still make people smile.

In honor of Dave’s love for sports, we invite everyone to wear their favorite Minnesota sports team shirt—professional, college, or high school to the Celebration of Life on Monday, February 9, 2026 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. with a time of remembrance at 5:00 p.m. at the Mt. Iron Community Center. Arrangements are by the Ziemer-Moeglein-Shatava Funeral Home in Gilbert.