David Longfield

David Earl Longfield, age 89, a beloved member of the West Branch, Michigan community, sadly left our world, peacefully, on February 23, 2025, after a life richly lived in service, kindness and integrity. Funeral arrangements are under the guidance of the Surls Funeral Home in Iowa Falls.
Born to Henry and Laura Longfield, January 6.1936, he grew up in Highland, Michigan, where he learned his strong work ethic, love of music and the outdoors. He competed in the high school band as an 8th grader which led him to the Interlochen Fine Arts Camp. Following graduation from Milford High School (1954), Dave went on to pursue a Bachelor of Science Degree (1958) at Michigan State University. He described himself as quite shy (we all find that hard to believe as he was a great storyteller with an awesome sense of humor) and couldn't understand how he became the President of MSU Block and Bridle Club. He also earned a position on the 1958 Livestock Judging Team. His picture still hangs in the MSU Pavilion. Dave enjoyed playing the clarinet as part of the MSU Marching Band. He loved participating in the Alumni Band each Fall. One of his more memorable experiences included a visit from MSU's Tom Izzo.
Dave and Carrie were married on August 29, 1958. They enjoyed 58 years together before her sudden passing in 2016. He started his career as a cattleman with Angus cattle. Many years spent at the State Fair and Angus Futurity were among our favorite memories. Later, Dave went on to become a Golf Course Superintendent at West Branch Country Club and then Garland Golf Resort, where he retired in 2003. He enjoyed working with and mentoring the many college kids that he employed. He touched the lives of many in such a positive way.
Dave and Carrie traveled yearly to the GCSAA convention and golf outing, where they made lasting friendships and memories. This connection also gave them the opportunity for a once in a lifetime trip to Africa for a Photo Safari.
Dave's calm, kind and gentle demeanor was infectious to all he met. His participation in many community and professional organizations led to leadership roles. Whether it was with Masonic Lodge, Eastern Star, Job's Daughters, Michigan Angus Association, Northern Michigan Turfgrass Association, Golf Course Superintendents Association of America,and First United Methodist Church, where he served as Choir Director for 25 years. He enjoyed participating in the Community Musicals with "Music Man" and "Oklahoma" as favorites. He was known to break out in a tune that was appropriate for the current situation ("Oh What a Beautiful Morning" when he was on wake-up duty).
Carrie told Dave he could retire but needed to keep busy from 8-5, which he did. He became more involved in his community. He also worked with the Courtemanche Family in building the Dream and Nightmare Golf Course. He became a master "Pasty" maker and spent hours working on that Masonic Fundraiser. He enjoyed Kiwanis, ringing the bell for salvation army and quiet walks with his beagle. Dave and Carrie were also able to camp and loved the Rifle River Campground.
Love of dogs is a common thread in the Longfield family. Beloved beagles over the years were well spoiled. Dave would always be a dog favorite. His lap was rarely empty, and he always shared his last bite.
Dave's love of the outdoors was fueled by his dad and 2 older brothers with deer hunting trips "up north". This tradition continued in the Upper Peninsula with brothers, John and Don, and longtime friends at "Tom's Camp". As the years went on, comradery and the joy of connecting was more important than getting that big buck.
How do you truly honor a man that has meant so much to so many? He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend. He was gentle, humble, patient, soft-spoken and kind-hearted. He was our go to pocketknife guy, song leader and ultimate hugger. He didn't lecture or yell. He led by example. The memories shared of Dave have a common thread. "A gentle man with many talents. Wonderful and kind".
Those left to cherish his memory include his daughter Denise (Sheldon) Renaud, Stepson Russ Arnold (Sherry Poe), Grandchildren Kyle (Abby) Price, Katelyn (Cody) Cork, Klarisa (Scott) Hartema, Step Grandchildren Nick (Mikayla) Arnold, Alex (Luke) Glover, Aleese (Josh) Jarvis and his brother Richard (Lois) Longfield and Sister Edie (Chuck) Diver. His absence will also be deeply felt by his 8 soon to be 9 Great Grandchildren.
David now joins his wife Carrie, parents, Laura and Henry Longfield, his brothers and sisters-in-laws John (Jean) Longfield, Don (Sylvia) Longfield, Great Grandson Crew David Cork, along with other departed loved ones and friends.
A special thank you to the staff at the Hubbard Care Center, Mary O'Connor, ARNP, and Surls Funeral Home (Todd Sietsema) for their kindness and compassionate care.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations, given in honor of David, may be directed to the Hubbard Care Center, Hubbard, IA, First United Methodist Church of West Branch, MI and Claws and Paws Rescue, West Branch, MI.