Dave Borghardt

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

David Louis “Dave” Borghardt, 74, passed away on October 24, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, plenty of stories, and probably a few tractors, cars, and auction treasures that his family is still trying to figure out what to do with.

Dave was born on October 9, 1952, in Lamar, Missouri, to Raymond and Ilga Borghardt. He graduated from Lamar High School in 1970. He was previously married to Connie Jeffries, with whom he had two daughters, Kerry and Darcey. He later married Dona Raelene Reaves, who preceded him in death in January 2019.

Dave's love of anything mechanical began at an early age, when he would take apart his toy John Deere tractors just to see how they worked, then put them back together again. That curiosity grew into a lifelong passion for classic cars, motorcycles, tractors, and drag racing with his buddies. He especially loved the thrill of riding motorcycles, often at speeds that, according to his stories, weren't for the faint of heart.

Dave worked for the Missouri State Highway Department for 27 years, making countless friends along the way. He rarely met a stranger and was always ready with a joke, a good story, or a little harmless mischief.

Outside of work, Dave could usually be found at the farm, tinkering with a project, or attending an auction. He rarely passed up a good deal, and you never knew what he might be hauling behind his truck next. Over the years, his collection of auction treasures found homes throughout Barton County. To Dave, there was always room for one more project or something that might come in handy someday.

During the last year and a half of his life, Dave resided in an assisted living home, where he was cared for by Mariana and her family. His daughters wish to express their heartfelt gratitude to Mariana for her exceptional compassion, dedication, and the countless hours she devoted to his care. Her kindness and commitment to his well-being will always be deeply appreciated.

Dave is survived by his daughters, Kerry Jungmann of Springfield, Missouri, and Darcey Borghardt of Battlefield, Missouri; stepsons, Brad (Cindy) Gammon of Lamar, Missouri, and Wade (Cristin) Gammon of the Netherlands; daughter-in-law, Michelle Gammon; ten grandchildren, Halle (Noah), Macie, Jolie, Luca, BJ (Hallee), Tom, Kyle, Kendall, Kaden (Jamie), and Kelson; great-granddaughter, Jaylee; and sister, Sandy Rickey of Odessa, Missouri.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Dona; and his stepson, Todd Gammon.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at Daniel Funeral Home in Lamar, Missouri. Graveside services will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Sheldon Cemetery in Sheldon, Missouri.

Condolences may be shared at www.dfhlamar.com.