David Brian Schweikhardt

Dr. David Brian Schweikhardt, 58, passed away unexpectedly in his home in East Lansing, Michigan on June 2, 2017. He was born in New Castle, IN, a son of the late Richard and Emma (Caudill) Schweikhardt.

David was a professor at Michigan State University where he specialized in agricultural policy, trade policy, and law in the Department of Agricultural, Food and Resource Economics. He was appointed in the tenure system at MSU and was an Extension Agricultural Economist. David graduated from Tri-High School in 1976. He received his Bachelor of Science degree with highest distinction from Purdue University in Agricultural Economics, a Master of Science degree and Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics from Michigan State University. He received a law degree from Michigan State University and was a member of the State Bar of Michigan. His research and extension work has focused on agriculture and trade policy, including the North American Free Trade Agreement, the World Trade Organization, and all U.S. farm bills since 1990. Before going to Michigan State, from 1988 to 1992, he was an assistant professor at Mississippi State University teaching courses in Agricultural Economics, Policies and International trade.

Surviving are two brothers, Lyle “Doug” (wife, Ruth) Schweikhardt of Rushville, IN, children Shawn of Indianapolis and Ryan of Rushville; and Carl Schweikhardt of Indianapolis, IN; five aunts, Juel Shepherd of Knightstown, Ruth Williams and Ruth Caudill of Dunreith, Dorothy Stover of Spiceland, IN and Sarah Caudill of Montgomery, AL; two uncles, Everett Caudill of New Castle, IN and Leonard Caudill of Florence, SC; and several cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held in East Lansing, MI for friends and co-workers on Saturday June 10, 2017 at 2:00 with visitation at 1:00 at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, 1730 East Grand River Avenue.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Knightstown, IN for family and friends at Hinsey Brown Funeral Service Knightstown Chapel on Saturday June 17, 2017 at 11:00. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until time of service. A private burial will follow at Glen Cove Cemetery in Knightstown. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.hinsey-brown.com .

Memorial contributions may be made to: Purdue Foundation: Richard D. and Emma F. Schweikhardt Memorial Scholarship, Purdue AG Advancement 715 West State Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907 or the Justin S. Morrill Hall of Agriculture, Michigan State University Dept. Agricultural, Food and Resource Economics, Rm 202 East Lansing, MI 48824-1039.