David J. Kresge, age 62 of Helena

David James Kresge, 62, of Helena, Montana, passed into the presence of his Lord and Savior on December 31, 2025, following a courageous and faith-filled battle with brain cancer. He was surrounded by the love of his wife and devoted children, the very people who defined his life and purpose.
Dave was born on September 12, 1963, in Helena, Montana, and was raised in the small mountain town of Wickes. The youngest of seven children, he was born to Theodore and Rachel Kresge and grew up with a deep appreciation for family, hard work, and the great outdoors. As a young man, Dave found freedom and joy roaming the mountains on his dirt bike, hunting, and fishing—passions that stayed with him throughout his life.

He graduated from Jefferson High School, and not long after, met the love of his life, Kristi. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, love, and unwavering dedication to family. Their greatest blessing was raising their six children, who were the center of Dave’s world and remain his greatest legacy.
Dave was the definition of a family man and one of the hardest workers you could ever know. He spent long days providing for his family, yet always found time to savor life’s simple joys. His tireless work ethic made it possible for his family to share annual vacations—moments filled with laughter, togetherness, and memories that will be cherished forever.
When he wasn’t working, Dave poured his heart into time with those he loved. He enjoyed playing horseshoes, bowling and shooting pool alongside his wife, helping his children with school projects, and proudly cheering his children on in every activity they pursued. As his children grew and started families of their own, life changed—but Dave’s joy only deepened. Pontoon rides, camping trips, and the cherished title of “Papa” became some of his greatest treasures.
Dave faced life’s hardest trials with remarkable strength and faith. In 2010, he began his first battle with brain cancer and emerged a living miracle, blessed with 15 more meaningful years. In 2024, cancer returned more aggressively in another part of his brain. After a brave 13-month fight, his earthly journey came to an end. Though Dave was not ready to stop living life to the fullest, God’s plans were greater. His faith never wavered, and his love never failed.
Dave leaves behind his beloved wife, Kristi Kresge; his children Nicole Wenzel (Seth), Erica Altringer (Greg), Kelli Widhalm (Matt), Alyssa Feuerstein (Austin), Brianna Kresge (Jesse), and Dylan Kresge (Casey); and his 13 grandchildren, Noah, Caleb, Ezra, Saylah, Tanner, Tenley, Cameron, Maycie, Tayva, Blayke, Levi, Eden, and Charley, with two more precious grandchildren on the way. He is also survived by his sisters Madeline Cottrill (Jim), Maxine Fournier, Marlene Platt (Rod), Mickie Bulkley (Ron), Mary Elwood, and brother Ted Kresge (Julie), along with many extended family members and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his father Theodore Kresge, mother Rachel Kresge, Butch Fournier, and his beloved son Kristofer, whom Dave and Kristi lost at 20 weeks gestation.
Dave lived a life marked by dignity, devotion, and deep love. He was a husband, father, papa, brother, and friend whose presence made life better for all who knew him. Though our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing that his suffering has ended and his eternal life has begun.
Until we meet again— you are loved beyond measure.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

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Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.

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