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David "Dude" Prestegord, age 68, of Twin Valley, MN, passed away on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at his home.

David Olaf Prestegord was born on July 11, 1957, to Martin and Irma (Allrich) Prestegord in Ada, MN. He was baptized at Wild Rice Lutheran Church and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church. Dave attended Twin Valley School. During his school years, he picked up the nickname "Dude," a name that stayed with him throughout his life.  While still in high school, Dave began working with the school janitors after classes and during the summers. After graduating with the class of 1976, he briefly worked at Garberg's Grocery Store, and in the fall of 1976, he was encouraged to apply for a custodial position with the Twin Valley School District. He was hired full time and remained dedicated to the school for nearly four decades. For a time, Dave drove the handicap bus, transporting a student to Fertile for special education until the student graduated, which became a part of his job that Dude really enjoyed. He continued driving the handicap bus within the district for several years. Dave completed the necessary classes to earn his Boiler License, which he maintained for many years, and he also handled snow removal, lawn care, and assisted at school games and evening events. He retired in August of 2015 due to health concerns, after faithfully serving the district for 39 years and 11 months. Dave deeply missed his coworkers and the students he saw every day.

A special chapter of Dave's life began during a trip to Minneapolis with his sisters, Phillis and Lynn, when he met the love of his life, Phyllis Bencker. They were united in marriage just over a year later, on October 28, 1989, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Twin Valley, where they made their home together. Dave and Phyllis welcomed their son, Austin, on January 25, 1999, and Dave absolutely loved being a dad. He came home from work every day ready to snuggle his baby boy, treasuring those quiet moments. He taught Austin how to fix bicycles at a young age and had him confidently riding by the age of four. That same year, he helped Austin learn to ice skate, a natural talent that quickly became part of their daily winter routines throughout Austin's school years and beyond. Dave also shared his love of snowmobiling and four-wheeling with his son.  Dude enjoyed many activities throughout his life. He especially loved attending school games, even after retirement. He was an avid bowler, earning 16 trophies over the years and collecting more than 10 bowling balls, several of which he later donated to the Twin Valley bowling alley. He liked fishing at the bridge by Heiberg, ice skating, and fixing bicycles. He cherished time with his nieces and nephews and often talked about one of his favorite memories being the day he drove one of his sisters to the Mahnomen Hospital when she was about to deliver.  Dave took great pride in caring for his vehicles and four-wheelers. If they got dirty, they were promptly washed.  On any sunny day, it was almost guaranteed he would be outside washing and waxing them.  Dave will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, his meticulous attention to detail, and the pride he took in doing every job well.  Above all, he was devoted to his family. His love for Phyllis, his joy in raising Austin, and the special bond he shared with his nieces, nephews, and siblings were at the heart of his life. Dave leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and quiet strength that will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.

Dave is survived by his wife of 36 years, Phyllis Prestegord and their son, Austin, both of Twin Valley; two sisters, Phillis (Lynn) Weium and LeAnn (Larry) Houglum; sisters-in-law, Verona Prestegord and Wendy Davison; brothers-in-law, Jody (Shanon) Bencker and Patrick (Lea) Bencker; and many nieces and nephews. David was preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Irma Prestegord; two brothers, Virgil Prestegord and Stacey Prestegord; his sister, Heidi Boe; brothers-in-law, Lowell Bencker and Jeffrey Bencker; a niece, Tanya Thornton Walz; and nephew, Cody Prestegord.

His family would also like to extend their deepest gratitude to the many medical professionals who cared for Dave throughout his years of declining health. The doctors, nurses, and home health personnel from Essentia Health, and the staff at Davita became like family, offering skill, compassion, and unwavering support. A heartfelt thank-you is also extended to the Deputy Sheriffs, first responders, and ambulance personnel who assisted on the morning of Dave's passing. Their kindness, steadiness, and genuine care brought comfort during an incredibly difficult time. God bless them for their service and may they continue to be kept safe. Each will forever hold a place in the hearts of David's family with much love and appreciation.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at Zion Lutheran Church in Twin Valley. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm, with a Prayer Service beginning at 6:30 pm, at the Anderson Family Funeral Home in Twin Valley.  Inurnment will take place in Zion Lutheran Cemetery, at a later date.