On May 22, 2020, David Morgan left this world, succumbing to injuries he sustained on Tuesday, May 19th. He was born on October 15, 1939, welcomed by his parents David Morgan and Margie Foster and his sister, Joyce Sternhagen. Born and raised in Helena, Montana; Dave attended Hawthorne Elementary School and graduated from Helena High School before serving his country in the National Guard. He offered his services to his uncle, the 17th governor of Montana, Forrest H. Anderson, and was able to serve at some of the most prestigious gatherings and events in the state. Dave met his soulmate, Joan, in 1982 and together they raised their six amazing children, John, Stacey, Mark, Shawna, Shaun, and Kim. After 33 years with the Montana State Highway Department, he was able to retire and enjoy the life he worked so hard to build.
Everybody that ever met Dave enjoyed him immensley! From his stories, to his infectious and unique laugh, to his sincere interest in what others had to say. He was truly one of a kind and you walked away feeling as if you had made a friend for life. Dave cherished his friends, his family, and loved his grandchildren dearly. He left each and every one of us with a blessing that is almost impossible to comprehend. He gave. He loved. He lived his life to the fullest. Quite simply put, he was the best.
Dave’s love for the outdoors started early and led to an immense love and respect for all life. He was always fair to the game he hunted; always holding to the highest standards of sportsmanship. His greatest love was packing up his horses with his camping gear and finding the perfect spot to set up his camp, or just taking a horseback ride with his friend Joe. Dave was an avid outdoorsman, whether he was camping, hunting, riding, fishing, or tying his own flys.
He will be well-missed. Not just by his close friends and loved ones, but also by the animals he cared for – from his beloved horses and hunting dogs to the foxes he fed from his back porch. His cowdog, Hobb, was by far his favorite and constant companion. Loyal and smart, Hobb was the very best a rancher could ask for. Now, they are reunited again.
Dave was always there to lend a hand to anyone that needed it, even other ranchers. Be it sorting, branding, or driving cattle. He took pride in everything he did. Meticulously inspecting his hay to ensure it was up to his personal standards. He was a proud rancher through and through. The warmth in his heart was his greatest reward for helping others.
When Dave wasn’t at home on the ranch, he and Joan would travel and take in new adventures, be it a trip to Hawaii, or an amazing cruise – sometimes, sneaking off to play a nice round of golf.
Dave will be missed by many, and is loved by every life his presence enriched during his time on this world. His strength, honesty, and integrity will live on in his family and friends.
A celebration of his life will take place on Saturday, May 30, from 1pm to 4pm, at the Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please send your caring donations to Benefits Peace Hospice in Great Falls, Montana.
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Saturday May 30, 2020
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena , Montana 59601
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Saturday May 30, 2020
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena , Montana 59601
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Goose and Zjan Gregson says
Joan and family, we are all sending you are love and support at this difficult time…. sometimes there are no words to truly express how sorry we are to hear of Dave’s passing.
Please know that you are all in our prayers!
He was an amazing man, a true Montana cowboy with such a wonderful way of making you feel at home.
Goose and Jan Gregson
Joan Irigoyen says
We are so sorry to hear about Dave. We will never forget his sense of humor . . . and his laugh! His laugh made us laugh even if we hadn’t heard what he said. All of the times we made our “unannounced” visits (and they were all unannounced) we were welcomed with open arms by Dave and Joan. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Love Stretch and Joan Newton.
Newell Anderson says
David Morgan, a cousin of mine some times removed, leaves me with wonderful lessons of humor, kindness, great adventure of duck hunting, and personal kindness & generousity. He will be long remembered by those who knew him. Thank you David, for being you! Heaven has a wonderful new resident. My thoughts & prayers are with all he leaves behind.
Willie & Colleen Stephenson says
Joan, Dave was one of the ‘good old boys’. He was great to hunt and fish with and will truly be missed. His wonderful sense of humor and genuine kindness will always be remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Judy and Leonard Ober says
Joan, So sorry to hear about the loss of Dave. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Time goes way too fast.
Jeff and Katie Gleason says
Joan and family, Jeff and I are so sorry for your loss. Dave wan an incredible Montanan. We have so many wonderful memories of him.
Please know that your family are in our thoughts and prayers. May God wrap his loving arms around you in this time of sorrow.
Jeff and Katie Gleason
Matt Ulberg says
Joan and family,
I was so saddened to hear of Dave’s passing. The mention of his name brings a smile and many great memories of visits, jokes, laughter, generosity and fishing tips. He was a true people person and always made time for me, stopping whatever he was doing to visit. It Made me feel like I was important to him, and I’ll always remember that. Prayers of comfort for you always,
Matt and Traci Ulberg
John C. Ulberg says
It is difficult to express my sorrow over Dave’s passing. He was a true and trusted friend that had a heart
as big as the great outdoors he so loved and understood. His uniquely kind way of treating people was
amazing. His big smile and quirky laugh made all conversations special. As a seasoned hunter, fisherman,
horseman, and rancher, he always respected the animals and the land. And he was good at these things.
Golfing, not so much.
Joan and family- May you be comforted by your wonderful memories of Dave and find solace in the grace
of God.
M. Lyle Skoll says
The apple 3 doesn’t fall far from the cruel cruel tree.