Obituary of David Reed Dahlquist

January 8, 1945 – May 15, 2025

On May 15, 2025, David Reed Dahlquist passed away peacefully (or, as he would say, he was ‘beamed up’) at the age of 80, with his beloved wife of 56 years, Kathryn Joan (Olson) Dahlquist, his eldest son John, and daughter-in-law Heather lovingly by his side. David was born on January 8, 1945, in St Paul, Minnesota, to Harold and Eunice (Reed) Dahlquist. He grew up in Taylors Falls, where he developed a love for the outdoors—climbing trees, and forming a deep sense of curiosity and independence that stayed with him throughout his life. His family eventually moved to south Minneapolis, and David enjoyed the close proximity of Nicollet Park, which was the home of the minor league Minneapolis Millers. He would proudly claim that he snuck into the park when it closed down to ‘acquire’ the last flag that flew over it.

David graduated from Minnehaha Academy in Minneapolis in 1963, and attended the University of Minnesota for two semesters, before deciding he wanted to “get the heck out of the cold”, and enlisted in the United States Navy. While he was in boot camp, David received his draft notice for the Vietnam War. He beat Uncle Sam to the punch, and ended up serving two tours of duty in Vietnam. Over the years, David served aboard the USS Alfred A Cunningham, USS Long Beach, and USS Moosbrugger, and held various roles—including that of an electronics technician, recruiter, and supply clerk —always with respect, diligence, and a steadfast sense of duty. He retired from the Navy after 20 years of honorable service. He formed many lasting friendships during his time in the Navy, many of whom preceded him in death, but he fondly carried their memories with him always.

More than anything, David was a proud family man who was always there for those he loved. He and Kathryn married in 1968, and they built a life centered around love, food, and laughter. Together they raised two sons, John and Jason, who brought them immense pride, joy and serenity. He was best known for his no-nonsense advice, masterful storytelling, and a sense of humor that could bring levity to any moment. He taught by example—with resilience, empathy, and a quiet strength.

After retiring from the Navy, David enjoyed serving with the VFW, where he held many positions, including Post Commander on several occasions. He also enjoyed working for his Navy buddy Don at SuperCash for many years, traveling the world on cruise ships (apparently, the Navy really rubbed off on him), and hosting spontaneous grill-outs that often fed the whole neighborhood. He enjoyed cheering for and watching many different sports, but specifically took pride in serving grilled cheese sandwiches for every Vikings vs Packers game.

David loved classic films like The King and I, The Sound of Music, Ben-Hur and The Wizard of Oz, TV shows like; M.A.S.H., Star Trek (the original series), and All in the Family, and music like Beethoven, Neil Diamond, the Blue Man Group and Celtic Woman. He enjoyed learning about ancient Egypt, indigenous cultures, mythologies and world history. He spent countless hours reading Science Fiction books (unofficial family lore has it that he kept Uncle Hugo's bookstore in Minneapolis in business by himself), but he was the happiest when hosting friends and family—especially during Sunday dinners, special events, and traditional Swedish holiday meals.

David was nothing if not excellent. A storyteller. A cook. A friend. A parent. A partner. He had a genuine enthusiasm, a passionate spirit and a deep appreciation for a life well lived. He didn’t need a lot of things, just a good book, a good drink and a cigar, and good conversations with good folks. His grandchildren will remember him as a steady, loving presence—full of wisdom, wit, and warmth. He never missed a chance to share a story, lend a hand, or offer a thoughtful word of encouragement.

David will be remembered most for the way his presence filled every room, his relentless—and often naughty—jokes, and his unmatched memory for storytelling. He lived with integrity, a strong sense of character, a deep love for his family, and unwavering values that he passed down through generations. His legacy lives on in all the lives he touched and in the family he so deeply cherished.

David is survived by his wife Kathryn, sons John (Terri) and Jason (Heather), grandchildren Kaylen and Sean, brother Donald, sisters Debra (Schmidt) and Dorian (Moltzen), along with several nieces, nephews, and many honorary sons and daughters. He was preceded in death by his parents Harold and Eunice, his beloved grandchildren Jade Kathryn-Mae and Andrew David, and many cherished pets.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 12th, from 12-4 PM at the West End Trap Club, 4899 Brooklyn Lane, Eagan MN 55123. Interment will be at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the VFW, Shriners Hospitals for Children, St. Jude Hospital, or the Golden Valley Humane Society.