David Raska was the true definition of a one of a kind. The hole he has left will be impossible to fill. But the imprint he has left on so many of us will last forever. We feel incredibly lucky to be a part of the Raska clan, and to have grown up with Uncle David in our lives.  We will miss him forever, but will continue to tell his stories to keep the mischief alive. Our hearts and love go out to Aunt Nanette, Audrey, Andy, Jeffery and their families. 

Love 
Jonathan, Kelly and the Heese family 

Dearest Nanette and family,
There are no words to say how sorry I am about losing David. He was truly a force of nature. Strong and kind, always with a quick retort and a comical comment. He will be missed by many. I pray that his memories bring you comfort in your grief. 
Love,
Sharon McGee 

Dear Nanette and Family,
     We are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers. David loved his family with all of his heart. He was so proud of each of you and just beamed when he was with his family. He made such a difference in his lifetime but his family was his greatest achievement. May all of your cherished memories bring you comfort. He will live on through all of you. Sending our love to each of you.

Carey Macaulay-Schild and Bob

Dave wasn’t one to mope.  He was one to get right back up and into the fight.  I admired him and his running Southern Packaging Machinery.  Seeing him at work, I thought to myself, “He’s living the American dream.  Independent, calling his shots.”  No one worked harder and longer.  Yet, he found joy in it, and lifted others with his humorous banter.

My Dad also started his own business, Gulf Controls.  He called on Dave Raska as a customer both before and after Dave and Rick started Southern Packaging.  My dad had a lot of kids and knew Dave came from a big family and felt a special bond with Dave.  When my father retired in 1993, I started calling on Southern Packaging.  No way could I fill those big shoes and thankfully, Dave never expected me to.  He invited me to go fishing with him.  I was glad to do so and that’s where you would see another Dave.  The relaxed, confident, expert Everglades guide who enjoyed helping others catch fish more than catching them himself.  

He was fair, he could be stern, his employees seldom left so I knew the score.  It’s not easy running a company.  They enjoyed working at Southern Packaging.  When you find a good gig, you want to stay.    

Fishing with Dave meant getting up at 5, which was normal for him.  How he did this is amazing to me.  He could be hilarious.  He was honest, he could communicate.  He believed in fair play.  I always respected him for that.  

Dave was one of the most exceptional people I’ve ever met.  He wouldn’t want any of us spending too much time moping – a little, okay, but too much or he’d see it as a waste of time.  But I do mourn his loss now.  

A lot of prophesies begin with the words “In that day.”  In that day, Dave Raska will again pilot his boat, guiding family and friends, across miles of unmarked exquisite wilderness in pursuit of big brawny redfish, snapper and snook.

Jim Johnson


Nanette-I just heard about David:(I am sending my heart and my all to you and yours.I know you will keep him-in love-with you always.PLEASE take good care-know that I am thinking of YOU.

OBITUARY

David Richard Raska

15 January, 1951 – 4 March, 2023

Riverside Gordon Memorial Chapels at Mount Nebo/Kendall Memorial Gardens

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