Friday, September 04, 2026
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David “Dave” Kemmerer

The Western News | UPDATED 1 hour, 2 minutes AGO
| September 4, 2026 7:00 AM

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our good friend, David “Dave” Kemmerer, who passed away on Aug. 22 after a brief stay at the Libby Care Center.

Dave was born Sept. 16, 1955, in Allentown, Pennsylvania. In his early 20s, he moved to California. Around 2002, Dave made his way to Libby, Montana, and it became his home. He drove school buses for Harlow until his retirement and made countless friends throughout the community.

Dave was an avid motorcycle rider and took every opportunity to get out on the road, especially exploring the backroads around Libby. He was always happy to support motorcycle rallies and events that raised money for a good cause.

Dave had a way of making people smile. Even after experiencing medical setbacks in recent years, he continued to face life with a smile and rarely complained about his circumstances. He enjoyed painting rocks and hiding them around the community for others to find. He loved music and could often be found listening to karaoke at the Legion.

Most of all, Dave was deeply proud of his sobriety and regularly attended local meetings. His relationship with God was also very important to him and he faithfully lived his life according to His example.

Animals held a very special place in Dave’s heart. He loved them all, but his beloved chihuahuas, Morty and Jasper, were especially dear to him. They shared many fun-filled trips to the river and brought Dave endless companionship and joy.

Dave is survived by his brother, Dennis of California, his beloved Morty and Jasper, and the many friends he made during his years in Libby. Morty and Jasper are now in the loving care of Evan, who provided Dave with much help and support during the last few years of his life.

The family and friends of Dave would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the medical staff at Logan Health, Community Health Center and the Libby Care Center for the excellent care they provided. 

Final arrangements are being handled by Schnackenberg & Riddle Funeral Home.

Celebration of Life

Please join us in celebrating Dave’s life on Saturday, Sept. 5.

- 2:30 p.m. — Service: Christ Lutheran Church, 200 West Larch

- 5 p.m. — Memorial Motorcycle Ride: Meet at Riverfront Park, weather permitting. The ride will travel to the dam in Dave’s honor.

· 7 p.m. — Karaoke: American Legion, where we will gather to share memories, music and friendship in Dave’s honor.

If you would like to remember Dave by making a donation to a good cause, his friends ask that you consider donating in his name to Kootenai Pets for Life in Libby.

Dave touched many lives during his time in Libby. His smile, kindness, humor, love of animals, motorcycles, music, and his unwavering faith will be deeply missed.

Ride on, Dave. You will not be forgotten.