David Adam Gertge (Dave), 78, of Fort Morgan, Colorado died August 21, 2017 at his home following a brief illness.

Dave was born on July 4, 1939 in Denver, Colorado to James J. and Elizabeth C. (Appelhans) Gertge.  He was the youngest of 4 children.  His siblings included Betty, Louise, and James Jr.

Dave graduated from East High School in Denver.   He began working in the cattle industry at the Denver Stockyards, which led to his career as a cattle buyer and independent rancher.

Dave married Phyllis Ann (Scheopner) on November 11, 1961 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Goodland, Kansas. They made their home in Fort Morgan, Colorado.  Dave is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Phyllis.  His daughters, Lynn (James) McCourt of Fort Morgan; Lori (John) Thomason of Oshkosh, NE; and Leslie (Bill) Shaver of Brush.  He is also survived by his son JD (Bridgette) Gertge of Akron.  Dave leaves a legacy in his grandchildren, whom he adored, and include, Lana, Grady, and Wade Schamberger, Olivia Clise, Chloe Russell, Mallory, Clay, and Hank Shaver, Gussie, Ella, Hattie, Jayde, and Chase Gertge.  He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his eldest grandson, Park Russell in 2008.

Dave was an avid supporter of high school sports, 4-H, and FFA programs in both Fort Morgan and Brush.  Dave, and his wife Phyllis, enjoyed traveling throughout the years to several locations and destinations, but he especially enjoyed their annual trips to the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. Dave enjoyed taking his children and grandchildren to his ranch, rodeos, fairs, parades, and visiting the National Western Stock show every year to show them where his career began.  He was well known for his bountiful garden, culinary skills, generosity, sense of humor, captivating stories, and love of his family. He will be infinitely missed by his family, and all that had the pleasure of knowing Dave Gertge.

Recitation of the rosary will be Friday, August 25 at 7:30 PM at St Mary's Catholic Church in Brush, Colorado. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, August 26 at 10:00 AM at St Mary's Catholic Church in Brush, Colorado.  A celebration of his life will continue following the service. Private burial will take place on a later date.  Memorial donations can be made to St. Mary's Church, Morgan County 4-H Foundation, or Morgan Community College.