David Roland Gifford

David Roland Gifford, 78, of Louisburg, KS entered in to eternal peace on Tuesday, December 30, 2025.

Dave was born August 24, 1947, in Minot, North Dakota to Roland and Esther Gifford. While in college, Dave proudly enlisted in the United States Army and bravely fought in the Vietnam War as a soldier assigned to Special Forces. He received several citations and commendations including two Purple Hearts. His exceptional leadership, decisiveness and bravery was clearly reflected during his time in the service and followed him throughout the entirety of his life. He spent much of his enlisted time as a drill sergeant training the next generation of soldiers and eventually became a recruiter. He retired as a Sergeant First Class after more than 20 years of dedicated service.

While stationed in Germany, Dave met the love of his life Lauretta. They married on February 27, 1987, and were inseparable for the next nearly 39 years. Together, they merged their hearts and families and lived out their perfect love story. Dave was an avid hunter, fisherman, silver smith, candle maker, master gardener, wood worker and professional overall tinkerer. He passed his love of these things on to his children and grandchildren.

Dave is preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Mary Brumfield and Chris Tutterow, as well as his son, Larry Reed.

He is survived by his wife, Lauretta, sister Jo Hall, children Ted (Sheri) Gifford, Sandie (Seth) Hanebutt, Bill (Beth) Gifford, James (Jen) Reed, Tara (Mike) Longgood, Susan (Robert) Smothers, 20 grandchildren and 3 great grand children.

Funeral services will be held January 10, 2026, at Louisburg United Methodist Church. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by a military honors service at 10:00 a.m.