David "Dave" A. Hartfiel

David “Dave” Hartfiel, born April 17, 1942, in Anoka, Minnesota, to Anthony Hartfiel and Nancy Walker, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 22, 2026, surrounded by his family.

After attending high school, Dave enlisted in the United States Army, where he proudly served as a Military Police officer. His time in the Army was one of the defining chapters of his life. He took immense pride in serving his country, cherished the lifelong friendships he made, and often shared stories about the places he was fortunate enough to see during his service. The friendships Dave built while growing up in Anoka and during his years in the Army remained some of the greatest blessings of his life and endured for decades.

Following his military service, Dave and a group of close friends moved to California. Among them was Laura, who would become the love of his life. Their friendship blossomed into a lifelong romance, and they were married in 1965.

While living in California, Dave and Laura embraced every adventure they could. Dave especially loved taking drives along the California coastline with his beautiful wife by his side, listening to the popular songs of the 1950s. He worked at Hughes Aircraft, where he oversaw shipping and receiving.

When Laura became pregnant with their first child, they decided to return home to Minnesota to be closer to family. Dave began a long career at Federal-Hoffman in Anoka, where he became a respected foreman and natural leader. He was known for his strong work ethic, steady leadership, and the respect he earned from those who worked beside him.

Eventually, Dave and Laura settled in Elk River, where they raised their two daughters and built a home filled with music, love, laughter, and countless cherished memories.

Dave found his greatest peace in nature. He loved feeding the birds, watching squirrels, rabbits, and other wildlife, and simply enjoying the outdoors. Whether sitting outside listening to the birds sing or watching the changing seasons, those quiet moments brought him happiness throughout his life.

Family meant everything to Dave. He cherished watching his daughters grow, welcoming grandchildren, and spending time with the people he loved most.

Dave is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Laura; his daughters, Rhona Lea Hartfiel, Jennifer Harrell (Tracy), six grandchildren, and four greatgrandchildren. Dave is preceded in death by his granddaughter Ella Jo McNally.

Dave will be remembered for his quiet strength, unwavering love for his family, pride in serving his country, and appreciation for life’s simple gifts. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort knowing that his spirit lives on in every birdsong, every peaceful walk outdoors, every old song on the radio, and every memory shared by those who loved him.

If you wish to honor Dave’s memory, spend a few quiet moments outdoors. Fill a bird feeder, watch the birds and wildlife, listen to the songs around you, and think of Dave. It was there that he found some of life’s greatest joys, and it is there that those who loved him will always feel close to him.