On Tuesday, December 22nd, 2020, David Michael Church, loving husband and devoted father of three children, passed away at age 72.

David Michael Church was born on Oct. 28, 1948 to Lois Brown Church and Willard Church in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina. His pursuit of saddle bronc riding and rodeo led him across the United States, eventually landing in Sioux Falls, SD, where he took a job at a local horse stables to supplement his income. It was there where he met Mary Kay Michael, a passionate lover of horses who boarded her horse at the stables. On June 25, 1968, David and Mary were united in marriage and moved to North Wilkesboro, NC, and had two children: Heath Monroe and Bernadette Maria. A few years later they relocated to Astoria, SD, establishing a quarter horse and cattle ranch. He and Mary brought another daughter, Anna Marie, to the family in 1981.

Throughout David's life he has worked as a rancher, cattle buyer/trader, heavy equipment operator, semi driver, fencer, welder and business owner. He self proclaimed to be a jack of all trades, master of none. He was better known by his family as a master duck-taper! If he couldn't fix it, his superpower was duck tape to the rescue!

David will be remembered for his passion for helping others. Many of his employees and children's friends became like family to him. We will always remember his beautiful smile, generous heart, his love of treasure hunting, collecting coins and JoAnne Bird art, fishing, hunting, hiking, and being devoted to his family. He loved making little Johnny jokes, reading history, Native American and Louis L'Amour books, and cooking his famous southern grits, biscuits, and gravy.

David Church is survived by his wife (Mary) of Astoria, SD, son Heath (J'Lynn) residing in Oklahoma, two daughters, Bernadette (Raymond) residing in Kaua'i, Hawaii, Anna, residing in Astoria, SD, one brother, Ronny (Wanda) of North Wilkesboro, NC, as well as numerous extended family members.

In lieu of flowers, the family humbly requests donations be sent to Mary Church, 48081 196th St. Astoria, SD 57213.

Friends and family are invited to a visitation at 10:00 am and a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 am on Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 102 W 5th St., White, SD 57276.  A small luncheon will be provided at St. Paul's following Mass.

The family would especially like to thank the loving and supportive staff of Avera Dougherty Hospice House 4509 Prince of Peace Place, Sioux Falls, SD, and the caring staff of Eidsness Funeral and Cremation Services of Brookings, SD.