David Mason was born on October 11, 1945, in Pontiac, Michigan. From an early age, he was drawn to the natural beauty of his home state—spending his youth fishing for lake trout and smelt in Michigan’s abundant waters. As a high schooler in Traverse City, Dave worked as a cook at the Pinestead Restaurant and proudly played varsity football. It was during these formative years that he met the love of his life, Linda Dianne Hemming, beginning a lifelong partnership grounded in devotion, adventure, and shared dreams.
Dave pursued higher education with determination, funding his way through college by working at the Oldsmobile Plant while earning his degree from Michigan State University. His first teaching role was in Okemos, Michigan, where he taught Biology and Physical Education. In 1972, seeking new opportunities, Dave and Linda—along with their young son David—relocated to Butte, Montana. Their early days in Butte were marked by resilience and humor, living in a KOA campground as winter snow fell until they found permanent housing.
Dave began teaching at West Junior High before transitioning to Butte High School, where he continued to impact countless students in the classroom and in the athletic training room. He eventually built the family’s forever home in Silver Bow, Montana—a place that became the heart of many treasured memories.
Dave’s love for the outdoors never waned. Summers were spent as a wilderness ranger with mules in tow often with his son Justin by his side. Dave also was a horse packer in Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness with Linda joining many expeditions. Dave found both peace and purpose in the wild landscapes he cherished.
After raising their family and watching their children start families of their own, Dave and Linda set out on a new teaching adventure in Alaska. There, Dave embraced the state’s rugged beauty—hunting, fishing, and forging friendships while living life to its fullest. Upon retirement as principals in the far north, the couple returned to their Montana ranch, where Dave could often be seen tending the land from the seat of his tractor, behind the wheel of his plow truck, or exploring in his side-by-side.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, one brother, and his eldest son, David. He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Linda Mason; son, Justin Mason (wife Jeni Mason; grandchildren Jaydyn and JT Mason); daughter-in-law Jodie Mason (grandchildren Erik and Lauryn Mason, Ryan Mason & Brooke Reynolds, MaKinzie Mason; and great-granddaughter Davie Mason). He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will carry his memory forward with affection and admiration.
Dave lived a life of purpose, guided by love for family, respect for nature, and unwavering dedication to his community. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched. In respect of Dave’s wishes, the family is not planning any services.
Axelson Funeral & Cremation Services is privileged to care David and his family.
Please visit below to leave a condolence or share a memory of David.
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Kevin McMahon says
Dear Linda, Justin and Family
So sorry to hear about the passing of Dave Sr. I have lots of memories of Dave when I was in his athletic training class in high school. He dedicated himself to educating many students through the decades and many of them students are a better person because of his dedication. May all of your fond memories over the years comfort you in the days ahead. I know that Dave Sr and Dave Jr are together again running that river in the sky.
Bob LeFever says
Linda and family our deepest sympathy for your loss. Dave spent a lot of time in Fran Johnson’s. We always had fishing and floating stories to swap. Our trip with Kuecks on the Middle Fork of the Salmon river is most memorable. He was a fine gentleman and friend. Our deepest condolences.
Bob and Mary LeFever
Elena Nelson says
Dear Justin, Jeni, and family
Thinking of you all during this difficult time. Dave’s memory will continue to live on through all of you.
Shirley A. Willoughby says
Dearest Linda and Family: I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Dave. I have so many wonderful memories of Dave and Linda at work and at play. I had so many joyous times at their home for so many gatherings including picnics and karaoke. We had so much fun! Wonderful, hardworking, people that left me with so many good memories. Rest in peace Dave. You were loved!
Kathy Decker says
Dearest Mason Family,
My thoughts are with you all during this difficult time. As you mourn Dave, know you are not alone. He touched many lives and his memory lives on in all of us. I love you all.
Joyce Kuecks says
Love and prayers to you all. My memory bank is so full with all the good times we shared. You were like family to us. I know that his memory will live on forever and I know that Ron, Dave and David are fishing in the waters of heaven. Joyce and family.
Joe Williams says
Mr. Mason was my health/Phys Ed Teacher back in the day at West Jr. High. I really enjoyed his teaching and his leadership. A wonderful man!
Lynnette & David West says
Dave was one of the kindest men I know. He was so supportive and caring to all. I was blessed to have the privilege of working with him at the NWABSD. He shared his love of the outdoors and how important family was. Rest in peace, Dave.
Carl and Lulu Chamblee says
Dave and Linda modeled integrity, grit, love and caring for others. It’s impossible for me to speak of one without the other as they modeled a loving caring relationship for each other that was inspiring. Linda, you are one of the strongest, toughest, and most caring persons I have known, my heart goes out to you and your family, Lulu and I send our love.
Dave and I spent some time out in the country and at work and I enjoyed his company immensely. I still have the recliner he donated to my cabin, and I take the best naps in that chair every fall. Love and condolences to you all.
Mattthew 5:4.4
Donna Davis says
Dear Linda,
I’m so sorry to read about the loss of your dear husband. I know how much he meant to you .
We haven’t spoke in awhile but you have always been in my thoughts. Always enjoyed our time together. You are one of the most giving person I’ve known
I know how difficult this time is, if I can help in anyway, please call me.
In my thoughts. Love, Donna Davis
Aland Pat Peacock says
So sorry to hear of Dave’s passing! However Dave led a very full life With lots of love, laughter, adventure and service. We very much enjoyed yours and Dave’s years in Kotzebue as principals! Linda, now the reins rest in your hands. Savor the memories and forge new ones in your remaining time with family and friends! Al and Pat Peacock
Richard E Garlish says
Dear Linda and Justin,
Very sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. It’s been some time since our paths have crossed, but I think its important for teachers to recognize and celebrate their colleagues for a career that so positively impacts kids. RIP Dave
Carol Harvey says
Dear Linda and family:
I was so sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. I have such good memories of him while he was the Wilderess Ranger in Wise River Ranger District. I still remember him taking the old retired mule from his string of mules at Wise River and you giving him a permanent home tor his retirement. We also have a few memories concerning the bum lambs you fell heir to. You are a wonderful family and my love comes to you all. God is with you.
Carol Harvey
Virginia (Ginger) Toivonen says
Remembering the awesome Christmas parties held at the Mason home! Good times and good memories. So very sorry for your loss.. Dave was a good man.
Gary Corbin says
Dave taught with my Dad at West Jr High for many years and I had him as a teacher. Dave was a good man, teacher and good on the oars. God Speed Dave.
Barry Brophy says
Linda and Justin Sorry for your loss I will never forget taking my children to your house to see the animals they never forgot they are now in their 40’s The mason’s were always great to everyone.