David A. Edlefsen
September 22, 1951 – August 8, 2024

David A Edlefsen, 72 resident of Malad ID, passed away on Thursday August 8, 2024. David was born on September 22, 1951, in Driggs ID, the first child of Jesse and Lucille Edlefsen. He was raised primarily in Rigby ID. At Rigby High, he was known as “Doc” due to his services as the official student athletic trainer who doctored football injuries. He loved his class of 1969. He died a couple of days before his high school reunion which he was so excited to attend. After high school, he went to BYU for his bachelor’s, and he served a mission in Germany for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1970 to 1972. He mastered the German language. He continued his schooling in optometry in Fullerton California where he met Sandy Jo, the mother of his children.

David started his career as an Army optometrist. He and his bride were excited to take their growing family around the world. Their journey took them to Germany, Texas, New Jersey, Korea and Oregon while they experienced both the thrills and pains of life. He was greatly pained for his shortcomings as a father and husband. During his life, he was fortunate to reestablish relationships with some of his children, which brought him great pride and consolation. The unwavering love and support of his parents and siblings sustained him throughout his life. He was a proud part of the Teton Valley Durtschi family heritage of which so many love and admire him.

David dutifully responded to many callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Both through books and overland, he had a life full of adventure. He died with many exciting building and mechanical projects in progress. One project he made sure to finish was a beautiful casket for his mother whom he honored and revered throughout his life. His life, filled with too much pain, ended painlessly while riding his beloved motorcycle with friends.

He is survived by 5 children: Stephen Edlefsen, Eric (Emily) Edlefsen, Analee (Shaun) Serena, Michael (Patrice) Edlefsen and Kimberly (Cole) Whittington. 12 Grandchildren. 3 brothers: Daniel Edlefsen, Mathew (Virginia) Edlefsen and Phillip (Rebekah) Edlefsen. 2 Sisters: Diane (Henry) Schwartz Spencer and Kristine (Allen) Day. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Mary Alice Smith, and his son little Davey who died shortly before birth.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 16, 2024, at 2pm in the Horsley Funeral Home 132 W. 300 N. in Malad. A graveside memorial service will be held at 12:00 noon, Saturday, August 17, at the Cache Clawson Cemetery in Tetonia, Idaho.