Dave Rapstad’s life was tragically cut short on Sunday evening April 27, 2014 in an automobile accident near Winston, Montana. Dave was a happy, joyful, loving man who will be greatly missed by everyone who had the pleasure to meet him. Dave loved life, loved people, and never knew a stranger. He was full of enthusiasm and had a trademark laugh that came from his soul.
Dave was born in Billings, Montana on December 21, 1956 to Arthur and Loraine Rapstad. He grew up in Custer, MT, where he helped his parents run the Exxon Station. He was a hard worker and always ready to help anyone at any time. After graduating from Custer High School, he moved to Billings and earned a degree from Rocky Mountain College. He then went to work for ASCS, and was soon promoted to County Executive Director. He supervised the Forsyth office before being promoted to the District Director position at the Farm Service Agency; which resulted in relocation to Miles City before making Helena his home in 1997.
Dave enjoyed boating, racquetball, and his beloved dogs. He is survived by his wife, Debi, sister Myrna, children Heather and Justin, grandchildren Ashly, Hailee, Haiden, Lucas, Logan, Jordan, Nephew Michael and niece Michelle. As a loved one said, “it will take an army to do what Dave did for the people in his life”. His life ended fast and with fervor just like Dave lived each day, and our ‘Papa’ will not be forgotten.
The family invites you to join them in celebrating Dave’s life on Sunday May 4th between 1:00pm and 5:00pm at the Rapstad residence, 1270 Lariat Rd. Helena MT, 59602.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday May 4, 2014
Rapstad Residence
1270 Lariat Road
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday May 4, 2014
Rapstad Residence
1270 Lariat Road
Helena, Montana 59602
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Karie Weamer says
Debi, I am so saddened to hear of this tragedy. Words cannot take your pain away. Know that so many friends are praying for your comfort during this most difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Karie
Darrell Grogan says
It saddens me to hear that Dave has moved on and know it must be very difficult for the family. Steffani and I will always remember the people who made us feel so welcome when we moved to Forsyth. Deb and Dave welcomed us to their home, took us boating, and hopefully taught us something we passed on to others later. I miss you both and am thinking of you, Debi and family, during this very difficult time.
Sincerely,
Darrell
Benjamin R Joyner says
I first met Dave last summer at the height of Sheridan’s darkest times. I had no idea who this little wild man was or how quickly we would become friends. Those of us who were lucky enough to know Dave, wouldn’t be surprised by this. Dave would blow into a place, with that characteristic charismatic energy that we all loved so much, and instantly make friends no matter where he was. He was a ball of energy on normal days, those of us at Sheridan got to see him in rare form as he and I started trying to outdo each other in the number of espresso shots we put in our morning, and soon noon, “Americanos”. Before it was over, Dave and I were imbibing 4 shots in the morning and another 4 at noon. You haven’t lived till you’ve seen Dave hopped up on 8 shots of espresso, running around the office and unable to sit still for even a minute before jumping up and taking off again.
Dave and I bonded quickly last summer. I’ll never forget the fun we had doing spot checks and FSFL inspections around the county. Often times we’d be talking so much we’d miss a turn off or fail to catch a road sign. Once we got so turned around that we accidentally crossed the Canadian border. Dave made working fun. When he came to Sheridan he told us “If I accomplish one thing while I’m here, I want us to have fun coming to work again.” Needless to say, he succeeded. Our fun extended outside the workplace as well. Thanks to Dave, a lucky few of us will never forget places like Reserve and Antelope, tiny dots on a map that will forever hold special memories for us.
Dave became my mentor and sounding board. I knew I could call him anytime with any question and he would be happy to answer. My last conversation with him was last week, when he called me up just to chat and catch up. I will miss those calls and our jokes. Dave was a one of a kind. While it may sound trite, God truly broke the mold when he made him.
“Death ends a life, not a relationship.” -Jack Lemmon
Kurt Seward says
Debi I am so sorry for your loss. My heart and prayers are with you and your family. Sincerely, Kurt
Art & Clara Gilreath says
Our condolences go out to Deb and the entire family at this time of grieving.
Sorry to hear of such a tragic accident.
Cousin, Art & Clara
Mary McDonald says
Dave will forever be the wild man in fairy slippers whom I got to know in my years in the Kalispell office. He always made life about fun and enjoying to the fullest. I send my deepest condolences to his family a great man taken to early.
Dave Spengler says
I’m saddened to hear of Dave’s passing. I have many happy memories however of time spent together in the Helena USDA office, racquetball with the “four Daves”, and times socializing after work. Dave will be missed by many.
Kristi Parker says
Every time Dave came to the office, it was always a brighter day. He would always have something to say the minute he walked in the door. The smile and energy he brought with him was always a lift to anyone around. His light will be truly missed by all the people he touched.
Colette Butcher says
I had the pleasure of knowing Dave for over 50 years. He and I attended grade school together in Custer, Montana (population 100, if you were lucky). From the day I met Dave I knew he would be a lifelong friend. What a people person he was, always cheerful, encouraging and mentor to so many. We will have to go a ways to find a person as compassionate about his job and about the needs of others. He was so motivational and such an advocate for USDA. Cherish all your fond memories of Dave. We certainly will miss him but we will see him again one day.
Joy (Hert) Sanchez says
I am sorry to hear of David’s accident that took him away from his family. I went to school in Custer with David and graduated with him. I have not seen him since high school but will remember his life and love of life. He really looks just like his Dad Art. My thoughts and prayers to his family
Bonita Kober says
Being from the Hardin area and sharing the same birth year as Dave, I first remember Dave playing basketball for the Custer Cougars back in the day. Our paths crossed again when he and I both worked for ASCS in eastern Montana. Then I was blessed to have him as my friend, mentor, and District Director when I moved to Whitehall. Words cannot express the loss we all feel in the agency, however, when I think of Dave I can’t help but hear his laughter, and that makes me smile. We will all do our best to carry on with the same tireless energy and enthusiasm, but I feel we may fall short. Not for lack of trying, but because no one can measure up to Dave.
Charles "Rocky" Horton says
Dave was a dear friend all my life, and we had so many fun experiences through High School, College, and both of us too ending up in Helena, Mt. Dave was full of life, an inspiration to all he touched. I have so many fond, and funny memories , stories, of Dave. My heart , and deepest condolences go out to Deb, and the entire Rapstad family. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.
Judy Hert says
It is so sad when someone is taken at such a young age (at least younger than me!). There is another angel watching out over the rest of us down here on earth. Myrna know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of the family.
Chris Evans says
I worked in the same office as Dave for almost 17 years…this place will never be the same. We always knew when Dave was in “da house” because of his big laugh and good spirits. Dave always had a “how ya doin’ kiddo?” for me and always had a funny story–or two, or three. He cared deeply about the people he worked with. Dave and I had long conversations about our love for German Shepherd Dogs and the various antics and scary health issues we’d experienced with them over the years. We always had to show off our new puppies for each other. He and I had just been talking about adopting retired military working dogs and his love for the German Shepherd breed was amazing. Dave lived life to the fullest–at work, and on his off time. He will be very deeply missed.
Susan Hagen says
To Dave’s family……
I had the privilege of working with Dave at FSA and will hold his memory dear forever !!! Much sympathy and many prayers to you as your life goes on without him.
Susan Hagen
Price Support Program Specialist, retired
Montana State FSA Office
John and Nikki says
My dear Debi and family,
There really are no words. Just know how much we love you.
Nancy Stepper says
Debi,
Harold and I heard of Dave’s passing. Our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family. May the Lord bless and keep you always.
Anita Matt says
Debi and Family,
I met Dave through the FSA in 1999. I can only say that my all of our hearts hurt when we found out of his passing. He always has a smile and will be remembered as a true friend forever.
Sandy McFarland Hays says
Debi and Family, So very sorry for your loss. Cherish and hold close all the wonderful memories.
Carole Nichols says
I met Dave for the first time at a meeting for ASCS in Glendive 26 years ago… i knew at that moment he was a great person… funny, kind, positive and always uplifting, and of course, he always smelled very good. Proud to call him my friend. He will be missed by all that knew him and all the lifes he touched in USDA. I am saddened by this loss.. I pray for all for the strength of his spirit to lift you through your heartache… i look for the day his spirit comes back to us through Gods love of validation… for God welcomed a wonderful man home. God Speed.
In God’s Love,
Carole Nichols
Karen Schanz says
I again knew Dave from my FSA days and loved the days that he came to our office. He was an inspiration to all of us and helpful in any way that he could. And as Carole said, he “sure did smell good”. Just know that heaven again has gained another angel who will be smiling down at us all. Miss ya Dave and stay strong Debi and family.
Mac and Bonnie Macioroski says
Debi, So sorry to hear about Dave. He was such a nice guy. We are thinking about you!
Whitney Baker says
The first time I ever heard anyone refer to their “Grandpa” as “PAPA” was 10 years ago when I met AshLy. The way she talked about her “PAPA” was incredible! I remember thinking I HAD to meet him……. and for the first time, I had a “PAPA”. Dave made an impact on every person he came in contact with. He was so full of joy ALL the time. He was a servant, there wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do for someone! Dave definitely left a legacy.
Lisa Toth says
Debi and family I was so saddened by the news of Dave’s passing. I worked with Dave while I was an auditor for USDA. He was such an uplifting guy and always made everything fun even when it wasn’t. I will miss his wonderful smile and joy of life and his work. He will be sorely missed by all those who had even a moment of his life. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Dave will be the Angel looking down on everyone now until we all are with him again. He will not be forgotten.
Barbara Wuertz says
So sorry to hear about the loss of your husband, Debi. I never met Dave, but it sure sounds like he was a wonderful man. Hoping that family & friends will be with you during this difficult time. Thinking of you, Barb.
Greg and Marc Shephard-Cottom says
Marc and I are so fortunately to have had Dave as our brother-in-law and to be a part of Debi and Dave’s family. We will so miss his smile, laugh, and whit. You were one of the most generous, loving man that we’ve ever known. We love you Dave. Marc Cottom and Greg Shephard, San Diego
Greg and Marc Shephard-Cottom says
Marc and I are so fortunate to have had Dave as our brother-in-law and to be a part of Debi and Dave’s family. We will so miss his smile, laugh, and whit. You were one of the most generous, loving man that we’ve ever known. We love you Dave. Marc Cottom and Greg Shephard, San Diego
Rob Krause says
It is So tragic when a friend passes on before his time. Dave always spoke highly of his family. He carried that generosity to his friends and co-workers. Having phone conversations with Dave when he worked in Forsyth and then when I moved to the Helena USDA Office he was a welcome sight. We talked over times with some of his Custer and Melstone friends from high school days and always had a good story and laugh (Oh what a memorable laugh). I hurt for you in losing this man, father, and grandfather early. He was inspiring, hard working, and always had an ear when you needed to talk it out. I will never forget Dave.
LeaAnne Lanier Hoffman says
Dave Raptad Family,
I lived in Custer in the 70’s and Dave was in my classes. My Dad had the Standard Gas Station while Dave’s family had the Exxon. He was always there helping his Mom and Dad and helping them out. SO remember the night my folks were in a car accident coming back from Billings Dave and his Dad were right there to help us kids out. I know Dave is just like his Dad and just as wonderful of a man. Their laughs are one that a person never forgets. Deb may you and your family heal from this tragic time with the wonderful memories you have of Dave and the thoughts that he is right beside the family .
God must of needed another good man …….Prayers to all Family and Friends
The Lanier Family
Sue & Eric Sharpe says
To Myrna and the Rapstad Family we are so very sorry for your loss. Please know our prayers are with each of you. Hoping you find comfort in one another and your many memories of David. Thinking of you in Nashville.
Sharpe Family
Renee and Rick Corneliusen says
Debi and family, we are so very sorry to hear of your loss. There are no words to ease your pain but know that loving arms and thoughts surround you. May God give you His comfort and peace.
Monica (Fenner) Septon says
Dear Debi & family, Matt just told me about this! I cannot say how sad I am for you all. You guys were so awesome letting me live with you my senior year and I have loved you my whole life! If you need anything I am here for you! Please know how sorry I am for your loss! Love you!
Monica
Karen Martin says
Dear Myrna & Family God bless all of you and may He keep you in the palms of His hands. I am praying for you and upon returning please let me know if I can do anything for you please don’t hesitate to ask. Love you Karen
John and Kay Cuvler says
Myrna, Mike, Michelle, family and friends,
I only had the pleasure and honor of meeting David once. I will never forget him, his laugh, his smile and love of life, family and friends! He was so full of joy, love and life! He truly was the life of the party!
May God wrap his arms around you and give you love, comfort and peace. Our love, prayers and deepest sympathy to you all.
Jeff and Shaunna Berglund says
Deb and Family – We are so sorry and sad to hear of your sudden loss. Dave was truly one of a kind, and was the best, most cheerful next-door neighbor anyone could ever hope to have. He was always willing to chat about dogs or anything else over the fence, or lend a helping hand. He even once helped us move on the spur of the moment! We will miss running into him around town and catching up. Please know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jeff & Shaunna
Jill Kanta Haidle says
Debi –
I was so saddened to hear the news about Dave. I have very fond memories of the time I spent with you guys over the years and am truly sorry for your loss. May all the great memories you cherish provide comfort to you through this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and the rest of the family.
Jill
San Antonio, TX
Wayne P. Camp says
May the Almighty bless your family, and may His will shine.
Sally McCoy says
Myrna and family; my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Rejoice in his memory as Dave is now with our Father in heaven. Hold each other as our Lord holds us.
Sally
Dickson, TN
Morris Burner says
Debi,
I was devastated and deeply saddened when I heard of your loss. Dave was the catalyst of our Tuesday and Thursday racquetball match and he will be sorely missed. I am so glad I had the good fortune of knowing Dave, as he was a very special individual. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Joe DeFilippis says
A tragic accident to a great guy. Words are not enough to list about what a fun-loving and great man Dave was….he will be missed sorely throughout the community by family and friends. His laugh and smile, and relentless play on the racquetball court will be missed. We are playing on Tuesday May 6th at the ol’ Broadwater to pay homage to you Dave…..racquetball will never be the same buddy.
Cliff Wilson says
Myrna and Family …
I am so incredibly sorry to hear of Dave’s untimely passing. I send prayers and my deepest sympathies to you all! May God’s grace and mercy wash over you all.
Sincere Regards,
Cliff Wilson
Todd Heberle says
Debi, Myrna and families,
I was truly saddened to hear of David’s passing. When David and I were young kids growing up in Custer we were like “two peas in a pod”. So many great memories. You may be gone my friend but never forgotten.
Todd & Tracy
Anita and Ernest Robertson says
Myrna, Michelle, Mike and Family….
I can’t tell you how much I grieve for you and your family. My prayers and love are with you .
Anita
Matt Fenner says
Debi, Heather, and Justin,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Dave was a great man who always treated me like family. Please know you all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Matt
Arlene KEGEL Corbin says
Sweet Debi I am so sorry for your loss I know Dave was a great guy and you’ll cherish your precious memories. I’m praying for Gods comfort. Arlene
Barb and Dick Allard says
Debi, You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Thinking of you all.
Ashley (Schock) Bratland says
Debi and family- I’m so very sorry to hear about Dave. He was always such a nice man with a great smile and great sense of humor! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Billy Swiney says
Mrs. Rapstad and family – We are truly sorry for your loss. I met Dave many years back at training for FSA District Directors. He was always great to be around. He always had a smile and could always make you feel better just being around him. Our agency has truly lost a great guy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Billy Swiney, President, National Association of District Directors
Dennis Van Hove says
Myrna and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss.
My thoughts and prayers are with you, at this time.
Dennis
Marc A. Kimbrell says
I met Dave through the Farm Service Agency, District Director. I would see him at training meeting that we participated in. He always had a smile on his face and a good word about everyone. The agency and the District Directors have lost a dedicated and stand-up guy. My thought and prayers are with your family. May Jesus Christ guide you and your family through this time.
Marc A. Kimbrell
FSA District Director III
Mississippi
Britney Uncles says
Dave was a daily customer and I looked forward to seeing him every weekend! He was always so happy and great! He took time to get to know you and he somehow wiggled his way into your life without even knowing it!! From my first day on the job the one thing I knew is that he would be the customer that I could always count on for a smile. I am glad I had the honor to meet him. I know he will be missed by all who knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with Debbie and her family.
Bob Herchenbach says
Rapstad Family: I am very sorry for your loss. While I only met Dave a couple of times at National USDA training meetings he certainly left a lasting impression on me. We all at the Farm Service Agency have lost a great District Director and person. I will keep Dave and your family in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless Your Family.
Bob Herchenbach
FSA District Director
Nebraska
Jennyanne Fiorino says
Dear Myrna & Rapstad Family,
I am so very sorry for your loss and pray for all of you during this difficult time.
Love, Jennyanne
Shanna Huckins says
To Dave’s family,
You have been in my thoughts this week, and my heart goes out to you. Like Chris Evans said, you certainly knew when Dave was in the building. When I came under Mindy Gauthier’s supervision I was in the Helena NRCS office one day last summer. I heard a very familiar voice and laughter that carried through the building. When Dave came into the room to harrass us, I remembered him right away from when I worked in the Dillon NRCS office nine years ago. It’s hard to forget a person like Dave; his smile, laughter, humor, and cheerful attitude. May your memories of Dave bring you peace and comfort.
Karen Weamer says
Dear Debi & Family, So sad to hear about Dave, he was also so friendly & good to visit with. My heart goes out to you at this sad time and lots of prayers for you for the days ahead. May your good memories of Dave help you going forward.
claira Bromley says
Debi
Ron and I are so sorry to hear about Dave, he certainly was one of a kind, it always made your day just to see him and get one of his great smiles and a sincere greeting,. We will remember you in our prayers and pray that the wonderful life you had together will help you get through the tough days ahead. With love and prayers, your friends,
Ron and Claira Bromley
Crystal Socia says
There are no words to say that will make it better or different. But i do want to say Dave will be missed dearly!! I work at Bobs Valley Market Montana Valley Hams, in Helena Mt. I seen him almost every day, sometimes twice a day!! He always had on of those bright, loving, care smile!! He was always a pleasure to talk with, joke with!! Everyone there new he loved his family dearly! Always helping w something, witch for me was awesome to hear. Family is everything, but He just seamed to be a very good guy period!! I do no he will be very missed down at Bobs Valley Market!! He talked to everyone & knew all our names!!! So in a way it’s like loosing a lil peace of our Bobs Valley Market Family!!! So I can’t emagine how his lovely wife, kids, family , & close friends are doing!! All I no is he will be missed by so many people!! Thank You for lettin me share my little bit & no my heart goes out to his wife, family & friends!!
Crystal From Bobs Valley Market
Rick Mouat says
Myrna & Rapstad Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I knew David when he was a boy in Custer. Although I haven’t seen him in many years, it sounds as if he was as chipper and charming now as he was then. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Rick Mouat
Katy, TX
Phoenix smith says
My name is Phoenix and I only have one story to tell. As I sit here and read the memories written down, it makes my heart ache with sadness. Sunday evening I was on my way back to Helena from Billings. I was one of the first people on scene. I stopped to help in any way I could. I assisted in keeping him safe until paramedics came. So I figure god sent me there to comfort him in his last moments. I am SO very sorry for your loss. He is in heaven now, looking down on all of you smiling because he has created a big beautiful family. Sending my prayers and condolences for you all.
Jennette Surbaugh says
Myrna & Rapstad Family
You and your loved one will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Jennette
Nolensville, TN
belva arvik says
Dear Myrna and the Rapstad family, Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you in your loss. You have so many wonderful memories of times spent with David. Hold them close! We remember him growing up in Custer and many fun times spent with your family. God Bless. Harold & Belva Arvik, Peg Kuntz, Rick, Cody and families
Steve Shaw says
We have lost a wonderful friend colleague and most of all a husband that fulfilled all the great duties of a grand dad . Davey was a wonderful, funny, and memorable man that i had the honor of spending my college life with. I cannot say enough about my good friend that has not already been stated. I will miss him and will pray for him and his wonderful family whom I have never met but only can imagine has been blessed by his presence.
Chris Freeborn says
Debi, my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Ken Stephens says
Deb and family,
Just want to add my condolences to all of you. What a great guy. I will miss him greatly. If there are racquetball courts in Heaven (for we all know that is where he is going) I am sure he already has a game going and I hope he remembers to “stay off the walls!!”. What fun times we all had with him. God’s strength to you.
Laura Nisbet says
Dear Debi and family,
Yes we knew Dave was visiting Debi in our office with his ‘signature cologne’…we will miss his deep infectious laugh and twinkle in his eye like what kind of mischief can we get into now?…
Our hearts ache for you and the loss of your best friend, husband, Papa…we love you and are praying for God’s comfort and peace .
Laura and Doug, family
Scott Riggers says
Dear Rapstad Family. I enjoyed some time with Dave at several FSA District Director trainings. Always enjoyed being around Dave. The District Director family will miss him. Scott
Jess Aber says
Dave represented USDA’s Farm Service Agency for the Governor’s Drought and Water Supply Advisory Committee. Dave would gladly get on his feet and report the status of assistance programs for agricultural producers facing the risks of farming and ranching.
Dave had a friendly yet professional manner with his reporting and knew the various programs and rules inside and out. I know I speak on behalf of his colleagues on the Governor’s Committee when I say he will be missed sorely for his service to the State he loved as well as being a dedicated employee of USDA and by all who made his acquaintance.
Josephine Johnson & Mike Sandoval says
Dave was such a wonderful person. Before our retirement, we had the great pleasure of working with him in the Plentywood Office. This man demonstrated common sense, empathy, compassion, and understanding, which can go a long way in dealing with people. He will be sorely missed. Mike Sandoval and Josephine Johnson
Dave Peel says
It’s taken me a month to work up the courage to read Dave’s obituary, and all the wonderful comments his friends have posted. I read them now with a smile and a tear.
Dave was more than a friend to me, much more like a brother and I think of him and speak of him everyday.
You were one of a kind my friend and there is a huge hole in my world without you here. My heart aches for Debi and Ashley but I so admire the strength they have displayed in this most difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Roberta Threet says
Debi; There are no words to express the great loss you are experiencing. God blessed this world when He put Dave on it, and He blessed the lives of each person that knew him. I know there are times when it is too hard to face another day, but that is exactly what Dave would want you to do. Face each day, if not for yourself, then for the memory of this great man. Dave loved life and he would want you to Live it.
Death leaves a Heartache that No one can Heal, Loves, leaves a Memory that No one can steal.
We love you and are just a phone call away. Roberta and Ken Threet