Remembering David Andrew Ruppert
July 26, 1940 – June 26, 2024
David Andrew Ruppert, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2024, in Butte, Montana. Born on July 26, 1940, in St. Louis, Missouri, David lived a life rich in love, adventure, and service.
David’s journey was marked by numerous notable achievements. After graduating high school, he joined the Coast Guard, demonstrating his dedication to serving his country. Driven by an insatiable curiosity and passion for the environment, he pursued higher education and earned a Master’s degree in Soil Science and Hydrology.
His career in the Forest Service spanned an incredible 49 years—a testament to his unwavering commitment to preserving our natural landscapes. David found his true calling in the wilderness, where he was happiest exploring the mountains and sharing his vast knowledge of geology. Whether alone or with company, he could mesmerize those around him by picking up a rock and explaining its history, structure, and formation.
David also served as the Fire Chief at the Elk Park Volunteer Fire Department, where his courage and leadership touched and taught countless lives. His unwavering dedication to his community and his fellow firefighters remains an inspiration to all who knew him.
Above all, David was a family man. He raised three sons—David, Christopher, and Charles—who adored him and looked up to him as their hero. He was also a proud grandfather to Austin, Ashley, and Kaitlyn. His love for his family was evident in every story he told and every moment he spent with them.
David’s wife, Alice Jean Ruppert, was his steadfast partner and confidant through all of life’s adventures. Their enduring love story was a beacon of hope and strength for their family and friends.
David’s character was a beautiful tapestry of contrasts—he had a deep love for nature and a fierce intellect, often found with a book in hand or engaging in a challenging game of chess. He embraced the simple joys of life, such as camping with nothing more than a tent and sleeping bag, and shared his wisdom and stories with anyone fortunate enough to join him.
Despite his gentle nature, David had a spirited temper when things didn’t go according to plan, showcasing his passion and drive. He was a man who touched the lives of everyone he met, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, knowledge, and love.
David Andrew Ruppert will be deeply missed by his surviving family members:
- His loving wife, Alice Jean Ruppert
- His sons, David, Christopher, and Charles
- His cherished grandchildren, Austin, Ashley, and Kaitlyn
David’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His life was a testament to the beauty of the natural world, the strength of family, and the power of knowledge.
In honoring David’s wishes, we ask that you celebrate his life by enjoying the great outdoors, telling a story, or simply picking up a rock and discovering the wonders it holds.
Rest in peace, David. Your legacy will forever be etched in the mountains you loved and the hearts you touched.
Funeral Services:
A celebration of David’s life will be held at Maney Lake, in Elk Park, Montana on July 28th, 2024, at 3 p.m.
Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Dave.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services is privileged to care for Dave and his family.
Service Schedule
Service Schedule
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Bob Johns says
What a great guy. Loved working with him. Super nice man. Condolences to the family.
Ernie and Cathy Frey says
Dave was a kind, gentle, and honorable man. I worked with Dave for years, and he became a friend to me and my husband Ernie. Matter of fact, at a Christmas party, the District Ranger asked Ernie who he was. He said “I work in soils with Ruppert”. We have always enjoyed our time spent with him and Jean. I thank God that we were able to share a lunch with Dave and former co workers on June 5! Dave loved it and so did we! Rest easy Buddy Cathy and Ernie
Sandy says
Jean and family, we were sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. The friendship you shared with our parents, Dean and Barbara was very special to them. I remember all to well babysitting the boys at your place in Elk Park. It was so dark out there. I remember Dave as a very soft spoken, gentle man. I know you will miss him dearly. Rest in peace Dave. Sandy Reed Elliott and family.
Tim Sullivan says
I was privileged to share a room that linked into Dave Rupert’s on the third floor of the Old Federal Building in Butte for many years. We were the physical science “specialists” for the Deerlodge Forest well before it got folded in with the Beaverhead. Dave was the Soil Scientist and I served as the Forest Hydrologist.
During the many days we spent exploring that wonderful piece of terrain not once did we return to Butte before dark. Dave had an insatiable appetite for trying to understand landforms that was only matched by his insatiable appetite for the vast number of wax paper wrapped sandwiches that he would bring every day.
He was wonderful, kind natured wonderful colleague, as solid as the mountains that he loved.
Cynthia and Ernie Weems says
Ernie and I were blessed to meet Dave and Jean a few years ago. It was the LORD that brought us together. We were able to help out one another in trying times. Dave was always so kind and loving a person and I’m so glad he was always there for Jean. Praise the LORD that their two sons came to live with them to help them out. We love you Jean and pray for you and your family. Praise the LORD that Dave is in his glorified body now with Jesus!❤️
Sandy Hill says
Jean and family. I know you may not remember me, but you have been in my heart and thought since 1974 when you and Dave so graciously took my mom and dad, Dena and Eric Hill, into your home while I was recovering in the Butte Hospital after my airplane accident. I have thought of you so many times. This morning I searched and came across the passing of your wonderful husband, Dave. Rene and I had an opportunity to stay with you for a short time a year later. I still have something you gave me and will treasure it always. If there was a way that I could be in touch with you I would love that. I live in Saskatoon Saskatchewan now on my own and have three children and 12 grandchildren. God truly brought us together if even for a short time! You are in my heart forever. Sandy Hill ❤️