David Jay "Dave" Dirkson

1961 - 2025

David Jay Dirkson, born June 30, 1961, in Las Vegas, Nevada, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2025, in Lewistown, Montana, surrounded by his loving family, holding on until his parents, siblings, children, and grandchildren could say goodbye before entering heaven. A man of hard work and honesty, David poured his heart into everything he did. As a proud rancher and the owner of White Wolf Consulting, he was a dedicated worker, never too proud to pick up a wrench or get as dirty as needed untill the job was done. David's soul thrived in the mountains, especially at the family cabin in Middle Fork, which he helped build twice; first the original, then a log cabin, peeling logs and crafting memories. An avid hunter, he trekked miles through steep terrain for elk and deer, often taking his boys or a dear friend with him. Family gatherings at Grandma and Grandpa Dirkson's were filled with his laughter, pitch and pinochle games, and the occasional wrestling match. A hard days work often ended with a cold beer or Pendelton and Coke, which is when the best memories came out. He had a knack for storytelling, often recounting near-misses like almost removing his foot with a chainsaw or wrecking his motorcycle and the nurse getting joy out of scrubbing the rocks from his behind, left everyone in tears of laughter. Above all, David invested in his family and friends. He built not just cabins but deep bonds, helping friends with ranching, going camping or trips to the cabin with his sisters, and wrestling with his grandchildren on the floor. He taught his sons, Daniel and Nikolas, the value of working hard and playing harder, always with honesty and fun at the core. His spirit lives on in his sons, Daniel (Lacie) Dirkson and Nikolas (Bethany) Dirkson; grandchildren, Maizee, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Dillon, Lynnea, Claire, and Lazlo; parents, Joe and Pat Dirkson; sisters, Debby Dirkson, Michele (Steve) Foy, and Beth (Rance) Pitkanen; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A memorial service will be held at the Hobson High School gymnasium on August 23rd at 11 AM, followed by a reception at the Oxen Yoke in Utica. Additionally, a precession will be held August 24th departing from the Middle Fork trailhead at 9 AM heading to the family cabin. A side by side or 4-wheeler is recommended for this trip. Everyone should plan on bringing their own food and drinks as this trip will likely take the majority of the day.

The family would love to see pictures or hear of stories you had with Dave. Please email any pictures or memories with Dave to ndirkson@live.com and they will be shared with the family.