David R. Chamley, 86, of Dell Rapids passed away on March 16, 2017 at his home under the care of hospice. His funeral service will be held on Monday, March 20, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. in the Lutheran Church of Dell Rapids Chapel. Visitation with family present is from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday at Kahler Funeral Home. Please bring a memory of Dave to share. On-line condolences may be left at the Kahler Funeral Home website.
Dave was born on September 20, 1930 in Flandreau, the son of Roland and Rena Chamley. He grew up and attended school at Egan. Dave was active in all sports, excelling in track. At one time, he held the state record in the 100 yard dash (9.9 seconds). After graduation, he was granted a scholarship at the University of South Dakota at Vermillion. Dave decided to enlist in the U.S. Navy instead because of the Korean War. After enlisting in 1950, he served in Korean waters for 13 months.
Dave married Alice Jensen in August of 1951. They lived in San Diego for the rest of Dave’s enlistment. He was honorably discharged in 1954 with the rank of 2nd class petty officer. They moved back to South Dakota and Dave enjoyed his job at Sioux Valley Telephone Co. in Dell Rapids for 35 years.
Dave also enjoyed coaching Little League for 16 years with his sons, Doug and Scott, served as a Cub Scout master, worked with the Luther League at church, and was active with the Dell Rapids Band Association. Dave was also active with the Lutheran Church of Dell Rapids board of directors, the Old Opera House Players, the Senior Center, and the Dell Rapids Museum. He was also a member of the Dell Rapids American Legion Post. Working with young people was very satisfying for Dave. His time as Santa Claus will be remembered by generations.
Dave enjoyed nature and the outdoors. Fishing, hunting and family camping trips were his priority.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 65 years, Alice; his sons, Douglas (Tara) and Scott (Marie); his daughter, Kim (Mark) Stelzer; his ten grandchildren, Ben, Jacob, Mike, Zach, Eli, and Andrew Chamley, Alice Stelzer, Scott Jr. and Dakota Chamley, and Katherine (Mike) Payne; and his three great-grandchildren.