David Hand

David Arthur Hand passed away July 14, 2025, at Crestview Care Center, Chadron NE. He will be laid to rest at Black Hills National Cemetery.

David was born at home “in a log cabin” on October 13, 1938, at Iberia, Missouri to Charles Earl and Esther Eliza Hand. It is interesting to note that while David may have had appointments at a medical clinic, he was in his 80’s before his first actual admittance to a hospital.

David lost both parents before the age of five. He lived with his grandparents in Elliott, Iowa. During his upbringing, Dave frequently chose to work various jobs to help with household finances rather than participate in school activities and events.

Dave attended Elliott Consolidated High School. From an early age, Dave knew he wanted to serve his country. Three weeks before High School graduation, Dave attempted to enlist, but a wise recruiter told him to come back after graduation. David joined the US Air Force on May 31, 1956….two weeks after high school graduation.

Dave went through basic training at Parks Air Force Base, California, and received additional training at FE Warren AFB in Cheyene, Wyoming.

He then traveled on the USNS Frederick Funston to Yokohama, Japan. Overall, he was assigned to four separate Air Force Bases in Japan. Dave enjoyed the people of Japan, the Cherry Blossoms and was proud to say he climbed Mt. Fuji.

After serving a tour in the Vietnam war, Dave returned to Mesa Air Force base and was honorably discharged in 1962. Dave was

honored to have served his country, and you wouldn’t see him without his “Proud Veteran” cap, which no doubt scored him a few beverages and conversations at the Ridge. Thank you to all who recognized and thanked this veteran for his service.

After his military service, Dave worked as a forklift driver at May-D&F, a clerk at IBM, a legal secretary, and a CPA bookkeeper. Dave owned and managed restaurants in Minturn, Colorado, and Gillette, Wyoming. He was an excellent cook. His "Big Salad" was actually a work of art.

He found his true vocation installing drywall. In 2000 he worked for the Great Northern Drywall Company as Drywall Foreman. A highlight of the job was meeting John Elway and most importantly the Bronco Cheerleaders!!!

Dave married Helen Darlene Ridley on November 8, 1984. Dave and Darlene helped sponsor the Gillete American Legion Post 42 Racquettes. Which included their adopted daughter Tammy. The Racquettes were a Youth Drill and Dance Team that traveled across Wyoming, the Dakotas, Montana and California to perform in parades, grand openings, competitions and shows. Highlight performances included seasonal grand opening ceremonies at Mount Rushmore, marching in the Rose Bowl parade and performing at Disneyland.

Dave and Darlene moved to Chadron to care for and better support their two foster children. Dave worked for Fuller Construction and in later years as a greeter at McDonalds.

Dave was Baptized and joined the Chadron United Methodist Church in October of 2022. In May of 2024 Dave was honored with

the Quilt of Valor and a Veteran Lapel Pin commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War.

In retirement, Dave enjoyed cruising the streets of Chadron in his 1997 Chevy Silverado pickup. Calling Bingo at Crestview Care Center as a RSVP volunteer, helping with Keep Chadron Beautiful events, socializing with friends at the Ridge, trips through Custer State Park, visiting Bear Country, viewing the Sandhill Cranes and spending time with his canine companions, Trixie, Rachet and Toby.

Dave is preceded in death by his wife Darlene. He is survived by a son, many friends and Trixie, Rachet and Toby.

Memorials are suggested to Friends of Pets, the Googamus Fund* or the American Legion. Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Chapel, PO Box 970, Chadron, NE 69337.

*The Googamus Fund was established by Dr. Regina Rankin (Crawford & Chadron Companion Animal Clinic) in remembrance of a beloved pet cat. The fund provides matching financial assistance to pets in need of medical care. Toby, Rachet and Trixie continue to benefit from the Googamus Fund.

Arrangements are in the care of Chamberlain Chapel.

Please remember to thank a veteran for their service.