David M. Tofte peacefully passed away surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, March 6, 2022. Dave was born on February 10, 1950, in Bend, Oregon to Beverlee (Yeager) Tofte and Theodore Johnson. Dave was later adopted by Sandy Tofte, and lovingly raised by Beverlee and Sandy. Dave grew up in Oregon and Washington State, and he joined the US. Army after high school. Dave served honorably in the service, and was very proud of his status of a veteran.
Dave, always seeking a new adventure, attended college at Chaminade University in Hawaii, where he attained a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in marketing.
Dave then took his education and travelled to Kansas City where he went to work for Hallmark, as a salesman. Later, Dave travelled to California where he embarked on a long and highly successful career selling real estate. There, he met the love of his life, Suzanne (O’Connell) Combs, and they were soon married. Dave and Suzanne were married for 34 wonderful years. They joined forces with their real estate expertise, and became part owners of 3 Keller Williams offices and founded their own sales office in The Villages Real Estate Team in San Jose California. Dave and Suzanne fully retired in 2019 and moved to Butte, Montana to be closer to their kids and grandchildren.
Dave was truly a unique individual, full of life and love. He cared for everyone he met and had a very special way of making everyone feel important. He was always quick to compliment somebody or start a conversation with a perfect stranger. Dave was described as somebody who made the world a better place.
Dave had a very generous streak, freely giving his time and energy to all. He was a long-time member of the Shriners, and frequently visited children’s hospital wards dressed as Popsy the Clown. He and Suzanne also spent 20+ years as Santa and Mrs. Claus for hospitals, schools, and Christmas functions.
Dave was particularly loved by his granddaughters Abigail, Katie, and Scottie Combs, all of whom absolutely adored him. Popsy always made time for them and made them a priority in his life.
Dave loved new adventures and travelled and bareboat sailed all over the world with his beloved Suzanne and many special friends and family. Cruises, catamaran sailing in the Caribbean, trips to Hayden Lake, Idaho, Santa Cruz beach and boardwalk, family reunions, weddings, funerals, volleyball games, softball games, and all too many other events to mention, all led to a very full and rich life for Dave.
Dave is survived by his wife Suzanne Tofte of Butte Montana, his children Scott and Eleanor, of Butte, MT, Gretchen Combs of Pine Grove, CA, granddaughters Abigail and Scottie Combs of Butte, and Katie Combs of Pine Grove, brothers Rick Tofte, Yuma, AZ, Richard Tofte, Panama, and Brian Tofte, Longview, WA, sisters Meladee Smith, Federal Way, WA, and Kimberly Tighe, of Roy, WA, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and too many close friends to mention.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Beverlee and Sandy Tofte, and son Dan Combs.
Celebration of Dave’s life will be held from 1-4PM on 3/19/22, at the Finlen Hotel, Butte, MT. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Butte Emergency Food Bank, or to another charity of the donor’s choice.
Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or share a memory of David.
Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has bee privileged to care for David and his family.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Saturday March 19, 2022
Finlen Hotel - Treasure State Ballroom
100 E Broadway St.
Butte, Montana 59701
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Saturday March 19, 2022
Finlen Hotel - Treasure State Ballroom
100 E Broadway St.
Butte, Montana 59701
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Mary Majerle-Tatum says
I am so sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. I so enjoyed his enthusiasm for life. Sending the family heartfelt condolences.
R. D. Shadley says
We share in the loss of our nephew Dave and have many special memories of him throughout the
years. He was loved by many and will truly be missed.
With love, Uncle Duane and Aunt Karen Shadley
Maureen Britton says
Oh , Sue, I am so saddened to see that Dave has passed away. I just talked to you last week and had no idea that the end was so near for him. He looked wonderful the last time I saw him. He was always so kind and warm to me. I will really miss him. I’m so sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences to you and all of your family. With sincere sadness, Maureen Harrington Britton
Jeanne Mulhern says
Dear Suzanne and family, We are so sorry to hear of Dave’s passing and we have the fondest memories of you both and your generous and gregarious spirits. He will remain in our hearts forever and our condolences to your family. Love, Mike and Jeanne
Jack Fritch says
Dear Suzanne and family, I was shocked and regret the death of Dave this past week. Please accept my most humble condolences. Dave was a good man and will forever be missed.
Jack Fritch
Loretta Caskey says
Dear Suzanne and family, I am so very sorry for your loss. Dave had a very kind soul and his personality was always larger than life. I always enjoyed his company and his passing will leave quite the hole in many people’s lives. I send you hugs and my condolences.
Loretta Caskey
Robert Costa says
Dear Suzanne and family, Dave truly was a kind and generous man who will be missed by all who knew him. Myrian and I have fond memories of Dave that will last forever. Our condolences to Suzanne and family.
Sincerely,
Bob and Myrian Costa
Donna Filey says
I’m so sorry to read the passing of, Dave in the Villager this morning.
Suzanne, you Dave were our realtor, when we moved to the Villages in 2009.
My condolences to you, Suzanne and your family.
Donna Riley says
The above condolences is from me Donna Riley
Bud & Vonda Burkett says
Suzzanne: So sad to hear of Dave’s passing! You and Dave helped us to find a place to Olivas Village over 10 years ago!! So friendly and professional. We miss stopping by to visit with you after you moved. Bud & Vonda
Tony and Myrna MIlano says
Our prayers go out to Suzanne and the family. Dave was a great guy and priceless friend, always kind with a quick smile and uplifting manner. May you have a swift and gentle flight home; we love you…
Tony and Myrna
Carla Griffin says
Dear Suzanne. I was so surprised to learn of Dave’s passing and am wishing you peace and comfort at this sad time. With many thoughts and deepest sympathy. Carla Griffin
Wand Buck says
Dear Suzanne,
So sorry for your loss and the family’s, and all who loved him so much.
I will always remember the good times we all had together!
Love & take good care of yourself,
Wanda Buck