It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David Philip Nardinger, known affectionately as “Dinger” — beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend — who departed peacefully on the morning of April 23, 2026, surrounded by his family.
Dave was born on July 25, 1946, to Lorraine and Allen Nardinger, the second oldest of six children. He grew up in Great Falls, Montana, graduating from Great Falls Central in 1964. He went on to attend Montana State University in Bozeman and later earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from the College of Great Falls. He would eventually return to school at Eastern Montana College in Billings, completing a master’s degree in vocational Rehabilitation Counseling — a calling that would prove to be among the most meaningful chapters of his life.
It was during his time in Bozeman, on a camping trip to Yellowstone National Park in 1968, that Dave met Pamela Franjevic. They married and made their home in Unionville, a small Helena community where they would become beloved fixtures for decades. Together they raised their daughter, Alissa, who became a partner in all their adventures. Dave and Pam shared 49 years of marriage until her passing in 2019.
Dave lived a life of remarkable breadth and purpose. He taught history for many years, instilling in students a love of the past and a sharpness of mind. Over the course of his career, he also served as a parole officer, a financial advisor, and an entrepreneur — founding a solar panel business in the 1970s and operating Nardinger Radiator. But it was his work with the Department of Veterans Affairs, as a vocational rehabilitation counselor, that fit him best of all. Dave counseled and advocated tirelessly for veterans, ensuring they received what they had been promised and deserved. That work carried his family to Juneau, Spokane, Salt Lake City, and ultimately back home to Helena, where he retired in 2007.
In retirement, Dave embraced life with characteristic energy. He built a new home in Unionville with his own hands, and filled his days with canoeing, hiking, and mountain biking. He became a founding member of the Tuesday beer group at Blackfoot Brewery — a gathering that spoke to his deep loyalty to friendship and his easy, convivial spirit. He spent several winters in Lake Havasu, always with an open door for friends and family who wished to join him.
Following Pam’s passing, Dave found renewed joy and companionship in Patricia Schwartz, who shared in his adventures and stood faithfully by his side through his recent health challenges. The two became immediately inseparable, married in 2024, celebrating their union publicly on December 13, 2025 at the Unionville Schoolhouse.
Dave was, in every sense, a giant. Deeply thoughtful, endlessly curious, and possessed of a clever and playful spirit, he left a lasting impression on everyone, fortunate enough to know him. Above all, Dave’s greatest passion was dreaming up and building innovative projects and volunteering in his community — a spirit of generosity and ingenuity that defined him throughout his life. He logged countless miles on his motorcycle, built lasting things with his hands, and built even more lasting bonds with the people around him. He lived by the wisdom he often shared: “Good judgment comes from experience. Experience comes from poor judgment.” — and he offered that wisdom generously, without pretension, to all who sought it.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Lorraine and Allen Nardinger; his beloved first wife, Pamela; and several cherished friends. He is survived by his wife, Patricia (Andreas, Chris); his daughter, Alissa (Adam); his grandchildren, Izzy and Jack; his siblings, Dan (Susie), Myrl (Bonnie), Maureen, Madella, and Annette (Steve); and a great many nieces, nephews, and dear friends whose lives are richer for having known him.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of St. Peter’s Hospital and the Sletten Cancer Institute in Great Falls for their compassionate care, and we especially thank Dr. Connor McCormick and Dr. Michael Walters.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Unionville Community Collaborative at spotfund.com
A celebration of life luncheon will be held on Sunday, June 14, from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Unionville Witlach Fire Station. Salads and desserts are welcome. All who loved Dave are warmly invited to attend.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Sunday June 14, 2026
Unionville Witlach Fire Station
Unionville, Montana 59601
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Sunday June 14, 2026
Unionville Witlach Fire Station
Unionville, Montana 59601
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Mary Larsen says
So many fond memories of this gentle giant..for many years our family referred to him as “uncle lovey”. Rest in peace. May good memories lighten the loss for his family
Jim Wangerin says
Dave was a best friend to me and many others.
Dave was the doorway for me to appreciation of his family and friends.
Dave lived a good life and his memory lives on.
Dave kept everything organized. I am trying to organize my garages in his memory.
Sending my love to Dave’s friends and family.
God Bless