David Bradley Arneson

On October 19, 2025-just four days shy of his 74th birthday-David Bradley Arneson completed his final tour of duty and passed away at Monument Health in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Born on October 23, 1951, to Joseph T. and Margaret L.

Arneson in Willmar, Minnesota, Dave was the second of their two children. Raised in Wayzata and Golden Valley, Minnesota, alongside his older sister Nancy, he loved the water. With so many lakes to choose from, he could always be found swimming, fishing, or water-skiing.

He worked for the Minnesota Highway Department before relocating to Salt Lake City in the late 1970’s to be near his parents-who were now "Ouma and Bampa" to Nancy's four kids: Travis, Jeremy, Scott, and Angela. Although Dave was married three times, he never had children of his own, but "Uncle Dave" was a constant presence in the lives of his nephews and niece, who always felt like his own anyway.

His calling, however, ran deeper. As the proud son of a \1/WII Darby's Ranger during a time of active war, Dave was too young for the Vietnam draft-so, in a humbling display of true character, he volunteered instead.

Wounded in battle but fortunate to make it home, Dave faced the lifelong challenges of health issues and PTSD. Even so, he was always ready with a laugh and the first to lend a hand to a friend in need. A lifelong Vikings fan, he bled purple and gold-SKOL! But even football came second to the true holder of his heart: a two-pound chihuahua named Moose the Fierce, or simply "Moosey."

Dave is survived by his sister Nancy (Chuck); nephews Travis, Jeremy (Sandra), and Scott (Ashley); niece Angela/Squid (Eric); great-nieces and nephews Jazlyn, Gillian, Jameson, Tori, Gavin, and Jake; and his partner in crime, Moose.

Waiting for him on the other side are his grandparents and parents-ready to give him his long-overdue "Welcome Home."

Rest easy, Marine. Hoorah! Semper Fi.

Celebration of Life will be held July 24, 2026, at Camp Williams.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff and friends at Monument Health for the care, kindness, and laughter they shared with Dave during his time there. Your compassion and friendship brought comfo1t and light. A special thank you as well to Premier and Broomhead Funeral Homes for their guidance, respect, and genuine care in helping the family honor him with the dignity he deserved.