David Joseph Neufeld, 61, passed away at home in the early morning hours of Wednesday, December 27, 2023 due to complications caused by a brain tumor.
David was born in Great Falls on September 24, 1962 to Robert and Jan (Faechner) Donnelly. He and his family grew up in many towns in Montana but Dave graduated high school from Havre. He went on to study welding after and received his associates degree in Stevensville. His family roots in Montana ran deep. His lineage can be traced back to the Brown family which was one of the first ranching families in Montana. You can still find their brand, Diamond Bar, in many places in Montana still today.
Dave remained single throughout his life, devoting much of his time to helping local children, working as a landscaper in Idaho and being a helpful and kind neighbor. He enjoyed any activity that involved being outdoors. Flyfishing and fly tying, hunting, snowmobiling, 4-wheeling and taking in a Griz football game or two. Dave especially loved hunting with his brother Ed. Often they found themselves hunting in northern Montana and would follow game across the border into Canada. Being the responsible and thoughtful hunter he was, he would always give up the animal and head back to the US, always thinking of the wildlife first. This truly speaks to his character.
David was a very thoughtful and kind man, constantly putting others before himself. Everyone who knew him would agree. He took great pride in the care and well-being of the local children. He was also very well known for his Dutch oven recipes; some would even call him an expert.
David finally settled down in Stevensville about 12 years ago where he would spend his final days enjoying everything this beautiful state has to offer.
David is preceded in death by his mother and father; aunts and uncles Sam and Corine Faechner; Allen and Joyce Faechner and his grandparents.
He is survived by his brother Ed Neufeld of Missoula, half-brother Russ and Sherry Neufeld of Hamilton; half-sister Tanya Boyer of Portland, OR; Jerry, Glen (Boo); Jolee and Randy Faechner; as well as many other relatives and friends.
A service will be held in Dave’s honor on Saturday, January 13, 2024 at Whitesitt Funeral home at 2 p.m.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com. The world lost a wonderfully kind and caring man on the 27th but heaven is now a better place because of it.