David “Dave” L’Hommedieu passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Oct. 5 at the age of 85.

Dave was born in Windsor, Vt. and grew up in New Jersey, graduating from Rahway High School in 1954. After graduation, he attended Paul Smith’s Forestry College in Upstate New York where he received his associate degree. In 1957, duty called and Dave served in the United States Army. After being honorably discharged in 1959, Dave resumed his college education, attending the University of Montana and earning a Bachelor of Science in Forestry.

Dave spent 34 years working for the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the US Forest Service, living in Seneca, Northern California, Washington State, and Hines, from 1977 until 1992. Dave moved to Stevenson, Wash. in 1992, and later to Bend in 2016.

Dave had a passion for hunting, fishing, traveling, watching football, and being involved in the primitive muzzleloader community. He was a charter member of the Steens Mountain Men Muzzleloader Club and attended hundreds of rendezvous over the last 40+ years.

Dave was committed to serving the communities where he lived. In 1986 he was honored as a co-recipient of the Harney County Chamber of Commerce “Man of the Year” for his efforts in getting stadium lights installed at Corbett Memorial Field. Over the years Dave served on numerous advisory groups, was an active participant in the Central Oregon Band of Brothers, and volunteered in a group that provides firewood to senior citizens.

Dave is survived by his sister, Cynthia Locke; former wife, Gretchen L’Hommedieu; sons, Greg and Matt L’Hommedieu, and Will Hearn; daughter, Janice L’Hommedieu; daughter-in-law, Karmen L’Hommedieu; and four grandchildren.  

A celebration of Dave’s life is being planned for the spring of 2023. Remembrances in Dave’s honor can be made to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation at www.rmef.org/donate/planned-giving/