David S. Derfus passed away unexpectedly at home on March 11, 2026.

Dave was born September 16,1960 in Marshfield, Wisconsin to the late Frank and Martha Derfus. He was raised on the family farm and was one of 13 children. In 1981, in search of a new adventure (and a job), he headed to Durango, CO with his friend John to visit John’s family members at the Jenkins Ranch (now Skyridge) and never looked back. Dave soon began a lifelong career in excavation in the Durango area, including working for many years for Bonds Construction, before starting his own company, D & D River & Dirt Works. Dave became known for expert excavation work in the area, including rehabilitation of rivers, streams, wetlands, ponds and more throughout Southwest Colorado and northern New Mexico. He enjoyed working with heavy equipment and was highly skilled.

Dave enjoyed many outdoor activities in the mountains of SW Colorado – snowmobiling and motorcycling with friends were favorites over the years, along with collecting classic cars and vintage tractors, hunting, fishing, and spending quality time at his friend’s cabin along the West Fork of the Dolores River. Dave had a goofy sense of humor and instigated his share of shenanigans.

Dave is survived by his brothers, Ron (Karleen), Jerome (Shirley) & Norbert Derfus. Sisters, Margie Gehrke, Janet Wellner, Alice (Joe) Schetski, Carol Schulte & Judy (Mel) Schroeder and many nieces & nephews. Dave’s friends in Durango were also like family to him as well as his dog Sam.

Dave will be greatly missed by his family and friends and we are grateful for our memories of life with this true character.

A celebration of life will be held later in 2026 in Colorado and Wisconsin.