David Anthony Hartter

David completed his life's journey on February 19, 2026. David was born in Loveland, CO and spent his formative years in Kansas. He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Elizabeth, lovingly called "Mama Liz." He is survived by his best friend and wife, Misty, his mother Pamela (John), his father Gary (Maggie), sister Michelle (Dave), brother Josh (Ellie), daughter Torie, grandson Cade, son Seth, two nieces, Madeleine and Annaliese, and his nephew David. He was a devoted, loving second father to Hayley, Lauren, Callie, and Carter.

He graduated in 1991 from Smokey Valley High School in Lindsborg, KS and entered the US Navy as Operations Specialist on the USS John Hancock with navigational, anti-air/surface/sub-surface radar operator and controller duties. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.

After time spent in the Navy, he returned to Kansas and graduated from Kansas State University – Salina with a Bachelor of Airway Science/Professional Pilot degree. He trained at the North American Flight Academy and the Airline Dispatch Training Center, where he received FAA certification and ratings for Private Pilot, Instrument, Dispatcher, Unmanned Pilot, and Advanced Ground Instructor. He also received National Intercollegiate Flying Association awards for Outstanding Team Member, Outstanding Volunteer, and Competition Safety.

His work experience included Aviation Consulting, Flight Instructor, President of NOCA (a training program for helicopter ambulance safety operators), Flight Manager, and Air Traffic Control Specialist.

David was especially a pillar of strength, with his unconditional love for his wife and his mother. He filled his life with enjoying family trips, strumming his guitar, hunting, motorcycle rides, camping with his brother, and teaching his son how to fish. He loved carpentry, home improvement, and building useful things for family members. His sense of humor and ready smile spread encouragement and joy wherever he went. He faced life's ups and downs with courage, a smile, and a twinkle in his beautiful blue eyes. David will forever live in our hearts.

A memorial gathering will be announced at a later time.

The staff of Central Cremation Services is honored to be selected to provide end-of-life services. (Please do not send flowers to the crematory)