David Alex France, 79, of Hartford passed away peacefully on Monday, July 20, 2026.
Dave was born on May 30, 1947, in Dayton, Ohio, to Alex Oden France and Naomi (Mary) Parkinson.
On June 2, 1979, he married the love of his life, Kristi Lynn McCue. Together they shared 47 wonderful years of marriage, building a life centered on family, laughter and unconditional love.
Dave grew up in Port Chicago, Calif., and Battle Creek, Mich., where he made many lifelong memories. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy before beginning a career as a carpet installer, a profession he genuinely loved and dedicated more than 35 years to.
Anyone who knew Dave knew he was a devoted San Francisco 49ers fan. On game days, you could always find him in front of the television, passionately cheering — and occasionally yelling — at the game. Every kickoff began the same way: a phone call to his brother, Rick, with his son David by his side, sharing a celebratory shot together as the game began.
Dave’s greatest joys were found outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing and spending time in nature, but nothing brought him more happiness than sharing those moments with his children and grandbabies. He rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on, faithfully attending dance recitals, cheer competitions, softball, basketball and football games. His love and support for his family never wavered.
He was also a walking encyclopedia when it came to John Wayne movies and “The Andy Griffith Show.” He loved classic Westerns and could quote his favorites with ease.
Dave was a longtime member of the Moose Lodge, where he spent many years volunteering and making lasting friendships. He was truly the life of the party and never passed up the chance to grab a microphone and entertain everyone with karaoke.
Grateful for having shared his life are his loving wife, Kristi; his children, Kimberlie (Dale) Lofano of Sioux Falls, Hayden France of Sioux Falls, David (Sheila) France of Sioux Falls, and Angela (Ryan) Munson of Baltic; his four beloved grandbabies, Landen France (20), Naomie Lofano (19), Madison France (17) and James Munson (16); his siblings, Jeannie (Jim) Stump of Yuba City, Calif.; Rick (Jacquie) France of Oldsmar, Fla.; and Dean (Donna) France and Gene France, both of the Battle Creek, Mich., area.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Naomi (Mary) Todd, and his sister, Beverly Bucklin.
Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in the memories Dave gave us and the love he shared so freely. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Aug. 8, from 2 to 5 p.m. Family and friends are invited to reach out to the family for additional details.
A quote known by Dave: “I’m gonna go downtown, I’m gonna see my gal.”
Celebrate a life with the whole community in The Dakota Scout. Contact obits@thedakotascout.com to have your loved one remembered today.