D. David Dodge (Dave), 79, passed peacefully into his heavenly home on February 26, 2026. Born on August 29, 1946, in Fort Collins, CO, Dave was the youngest of seven children and grew up surrounded by family and faith, which shaped the course of his life.

After graduating from Johnson High School in Saint Paul, MN, Dave proudly enlisted in the United States Army, serving from 1964 until his honorable discharge. In 1968, he married the joy of his life, Wendy Lynn Jespersen, in Watertown, SD. Together, they built a life rooted in devotion, adventure, and deep love for one another and their family.

Dave’s working life was as varied as it was colorful—from cooking on the railroad to importing art from Mexico—but he was especially proud of his years of service with the San Diego County and Weld County Sheriff’s Offices. His dedication to public service reflected his strong sense of duty and integrity.

In 1994, Dave and Wendy settled on a rural property in Mountain Lake, where they raised their three children, Holly, Bryan, and Joel. Their home on County Road 1, affectionately known as “Holiday Acres,” was a place of hard work and lasting memories. For several years, Dave and Wendy also owned and operated Joy Shoppe Antiques, a Mountain Lake business that featured their love of antiques and collectibles.

Dave accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at a young age and lived his life anchored in faith. His steadfast beliefs and dedication to his faith were constants throughout his life.

Dave is survived by his daughter, Holly Dodge of Mankato, and her children, Eleanor and Sullivan; and his son, Bryan Dodge of Delft. He was preceded in death by many loved ones, including his beloved wife, Wendy Dodge; his son, Joel Dodge; his parents, Bryan and Evelyn Dodge; and his siblings, Floyd, Larry, Evelyn, Vera, Patty, and Mary.

Funeral arrangements will be held at the Fort Snelling National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of memorials, Dave has requested that the word of God be shared by making a donation to distribute Gideon Bibles at www.sendtheword.org