Coach David A. “Dave” Wonder Death at 43 Brings Grief to the Hickory Creek Middle School Community!

Dedicated 21 years of his life to middle school!

November 6, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on November 6, 2026

David A. “Dave” Wonder, a Hickory Creek Middle School coach and music teacher, passed away at the age of 43, leaving a lasting impact on the Bourbonnais community.

Dave was a member of Hickory Creek Middle School for over two decades, where he held multiple roles, including teacher, musician, coach, and mentor.

Along with being a professional, Dave was a devoted Christian and a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Tinley Park, where he served on the worship team.

Mr. Wonder of Bourbonnais, David A. “Dave,” Passes Away at 43, Leaving a Lasting Legacy to the Community

Born on January 12, 1982, in Bloomington, Indiana, Dave grew up with a strong foundation of Christian values that carried into every part of his life.

After marrying Lisa Brinkmann on May 29, 2004, at Zion Lutheran Church in Beecher, he dedicated himself to building a family life centered on faith, joy, and service.

Following his faith, he spent over 21 years serving the Hickory Creek Middle School community.

He was not just a coach, he was also a mentor and a man who consistently helped others and encouraged them to do better.

Dave during his student graduation. (Source: )

After his death on Tuesday, November 4, 2026, many of his admirers and students remembered him and the lasting legacy he left behind.

Reflecting on his teaching and impact, one of his students wrote:

Mr Wonder was my favorite teacher in 8th grade (2007) he gave me private guitar lessons and coached me up when I had severe social anxiety. He will be missed so much! I know work with kids with anxiety as a mental health professional. He was a huge impact in me wanting to give back to the community like he did for me. Praying for his family and sending hug hugs to all who knew him.

While his death has indeed brought grief to the community, he is survived by his wife, Lisa, his son, Brooks, and his daughter, Grace.

Dave is also survived by his father, Kenneth Wonder, his mother, Marta Wonder, and his two brothers, Jimmy and Tommy Wonder.

Following Dave’s early departure, a visitation is set to be held from 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday, November 7, 2026, at Clancy-Gernon Funeral Home in Bourbonnais.

Additional visitation will take place on November 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.mat Trinity Lutheran Church in Tinley Park, with interment to follow at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to Dave’s family, friends, and all well-wishers who are praying for his peace.

Rest in Peace, Mr Wonder!

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Nishan Dahal writes sports with a human touch, covering breaking news, athlete lives, and the stories that stats can't tell. Nishan believes every athlete has a story worth telling. With the goal of bringing those stories to life with honesty, heart, and a touch of curiosity, he shares his insights through PlayerBio.

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