David (Dave) A. Holtan

David Allan Holtan, 79, of Fargo, North Dakota, formally Lisbon, North Dakota, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Sunday, November 25th, 2018 at North Dakota Veteran's Hospital in Fargo, ND.

Dave was born to Clarence and Laura (Lytle) Holtan in Starbuck, Minnesota on September 5th, 1939.  He attended Lisbon Public Schools prior to enlisting in the United States Army. He had his training in Colorado Springs, and was stationed in the U.S., South Korea, and Germany. 

Dave returned home to Lisbon, North Dakota after leaving the military. There he began a long career as a truck driver in 1970 with Melroe Co of Gwinner, ND. He was recognized as a Distinguished Driver due to his “safe driver awards.” He retired from Bobcat after 31 years of service.  After a few years of travel he went back to driving truck with Reliance Trucking, Fargo, ND for four years.

Dave met the love of his life, Carol (Smith-Johnson) and they were united in marriage on September 5th, 1981 in Webster, South Dakota. Along with the marriage to Carol, came five children, Tammy Peterson, Terry “Schmidty” Smith, Judy (Smith) Steve Hansen, Jody (Smith) Steve Neva, and Michael (Amber) Smith.  Two years later they had a son...Mick (Cindy) Holtan.

Dave has two sister’s June Holtan, Sturgis, South Dakota and Loetta Suchan, Anchorage, Alaska.  Dave has 13 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. He also has many nieces and nephews.

Dave was a quiet, selfless man who devoted his life to serving others. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather.

He is preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Laura Holtan.  

A public viewing from 6 to 7 p.m.and a 7 p.m. Prayer Service  Thursday, November 29, 2018  at West Funeral Home in West Fargo.

Funeral:  10:30 a.m. Friday, November 30 , 2018 at West Funeral Home, West Fargo, to celebrate and honor a true hero. 

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center  

westfuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of David (Dave) A. Holtan, please visit our floral store.