David Raftevold

David Raftevold, a cherished son of Wahpeton, ND, passed away under the care of Moments Hospice in Pierz, MN, on September 29, 2026. David was born July 11, 1944, to Anders and Florence (Eckes) Raftevold. Raised in a nurturing home alongside his siblings, Wallace and Gerald, David’s early life was marked by the strong bonds of family and the deep roots of community.

David’s journey through life was one of dedication and quiet strength. He attended St. John’s Parochial School and graduated from Wahpeton Senior High School in 1962, where he was celebrated not only for his academic achievements but also as the best athlete in his class. His passion for sports continued beyond his school years as he actively participated in softball and bowling leagues, showcasing his athletic prowess. He was elected to attend Boys State in High School. His interest in bowling started at a very young age when he set pins at the local Zenith Bowling Alley.

After high school, David pursued a Graphic Arts Degree at NDSSS in Wahpeton. His service to his country began shortly thereafter when he was drafted into the United States Army, serving from 1965 to 1967. David was deployed to Vietnam for a year, where his bravery and dedication were recognized with the Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Vietnam Service Medal with a Bronze Service Star.

Once he returned from the Service, David embarked on a diverse career path. After graduating from NDSSS, he worked in a print job shop in Towner, ND, before returning to Wahpeton to join his brother, Wallace, in a carpet business. He later worked with his uncle, Ralph Hoffman, in a machine shop. David career path took him through several positions, including significant tenures at 3M, Imation, and finally ComDel, where he retired twice, a testament to his work ethic and commitment.

David was a man of many interests, including enjoying the serenity of the outdoors through fishing, pheasant, duck, goose, and deer hunting. He enjoyed 50 years plus of getting together with his brother, Gerald, and a group of friends for the Minnesota fishing opener, although there wasn’t much fishing going on. He was a respected member of the VFW and the Bowling Association, where he formed lasting friendships and shared many cherished memories.

Known for being reserved, David had a unique ability to make friends easily, a quality that endeared him to many. His life was defined by quiet determination, loyalty, and the warmth he brought to those fortunate enough to know him. Sadly, the last few months of his life, dementia and other medical complications took their toll on him.

David was predeceased by his father, Anders; mother, Florence; and older brother, Wallace. He is survived by his loving sibling, Gerald, and sister-in-law, Judith (Stelton) Raftevold; nephews, Daniel (Cynthia) Raftevold, Bend, OR, and Michael Raftevold, Arizona; nieces, Lori (Bob) Bachmann, Rochert, MN, Susan Raftevold, Detroit Lakes, MN; and sister-in-law, LuWanna Raftevold, Remer, MN, who have been a source of strength and support throughout his life.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Duane Strand and the dedicated staff at Essentia Clinic-Wahpeton, St. Francis Hospital in Breckenridge, MN, St. Gabriel’s Hospital in Little Falls, MN, Harmony House in Pierz, MN, and Moments Hospice of Brainerd, MN, for their compassionate care. We would like to give special thanks to our GREAT friend of over 60 years, Gerald (Butch) Giwoyna. He and his wife, Bev, have always been there for Dave and for us anytime we needed them.

A service honoring David’s life will be held with visitation on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Vertin-Munson Funeral Home from 5:00 to 7:00 PM with a Prayer Service at 6:00 PM. The funeral will be held Thursday, October 8, at 11:00 AM, with visitation one hour before, at St. John’s Catholic Church, Wahpeton, ND, where family and friends will gather to celebrate the indelible mark he left on their hearts. Urn bearer will be Gerald Giwoyna. Military rites will be performed by VFW Post 4324 Color Guard. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery, Wahpeton, on October 8, at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice. Rest in peace, David. We love you and miss you.