David Carl Ellefson

David Carl Ellefson, 89, passed away on March 2, 2024, surrounded by family, at Mission Hospital in Asheville, North Carolina from injuries associated with a snow skiing accident. He resided in Brevard, North Carolina with his life partner, Leslie Lathrop, where they shared a loving, compassionate, and loyal relationship. David was born in Philip, South Dakota on April 10, 1934, to the Rev. Elmer O. and Verna D. (Dokken) Ellefson, who through their example instilled in him attributes of humble Christian servanthood. Principles he also challenged his children to live by. Surviving family members include his four children; Dan (Michelle) of Mikana, WI, Julie of St. Paul, MN, Eric (Kristin) of Overland Park, KS, and Ann Sortino (Bob) of Omaha, NE; his ten grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Dave gifted his descendants with unconditional love and support. He encouraged them to pursue their passions, work hard, and do things the “right way.” He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Harris Hostager. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother and sister-in-law, John and Joan Ellefson, and his sister, Luetta Hostager. David graduated High School from Minnehaha Academy, Minneapolis, MN, in June 1952. He attended Luther College, in Decorah, IA, graduating in June 1956, and honorably served as an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps from October 1957 through August 1961. David graduated from the University of Iowa, College of Dentistry in June 1966 and practiced dentistry in Iowa and North Carolina over a period of forty years. Dave was a cancer survivor and dedicated himself to fitness and a healthy lifestyle. He deeply appreciated the outdoors from the mountains to the beaches. Dave worked extensively in the yard and putting up firewood. He was enthusiastic about bicycling and downhill skiing, particularly with family and friends. Dave believed in living in the present and being responsible for his own happiness. He enjoyed socializing, often with a glass of red wine, and meeting new people. He recently told a grandson that “in 30 years I’ve never had a bad day.” Life celebration services will be held Saturday, April 20, 2024, at 2:00 pm at Saint Philip’s Episcopal Church, 256 East Main St., Brevard, NC with the Rev. Elizabeth Roles officiating. A reception will follow. A burial service is scheduled on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 1:30 pm at Washington Prairie Lutheran Church, 1725 Washington Prairie Rd, Decorah, IA. The presiding minister will be Harris Hostager. A reception will follow. All are welcome. Charitable donations in memory of Dave may be made to: Doctors Without Borders https://donate.doctorswithoutborders.org/secure/donate?type=tribute Sharing House, Transylvania Christian Ministry, Inc. https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/Mq4QyehtLCOtegiUMEGreg?submit.x=52&submit.y=

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David Carl Ellefson

April 10, 1934 - March 2, 2024