Dave Acton, Sr., 81, peacefully rode off into the sunset surrounded by family on August 27, 2023, at Davis Hospice, Cheyenne WY.
He was born March 11, 1942, to Roy P. and Ethel A. (Smart) Acton in Nodaway, Iowa.
Dave’s family moved to Cheyenne when he was two years old. He grew up in Cheyenne, competed in rough stock rodeo events until he graduated Cheyenne High in 1960. He joined the U.S. Army Reserves, worked at Cheyenne lumber yards, and worked in construction prior to joining the Cheyenne Fire Department. He served the community for 29 years, retiring in 2000.
Dave loved rodeo and the western way of life, including meeting his wife at Cheyenne Frontier Days. He and the family continued to compete in local rodeos, hauling kids to Little Britches, Youth, HS rodeos and jackpots. He enjoyed team roping with the kids and friends and helped gather cattle on local ranches. Dave also volunteered at Cheyenne Frontier Days for over 30 years. He was a member of the Heels since 1983, served as the Rodeo (Contestants) Chairman 1992-1994, and served as an officer of the Buckle Club.
After retiring from the Fire Department, Dave enjoyed playing golf, dancing, fishing, metal art, making hunting knives, stained glass, and spending time with the family and friends. He became a NASCAR fan, going to races with the kids in Las Vegas and Phoenix; even did a “ride along” in one of the Richard Petty Cars.
He is survived by his wife, Avis (Houston) of 57 years; son, David (Kara) Acton Jr. of Burns; daughter, Kimm (Kevin) Brookshire of Cheyenne; brother, Jim (Jeannie) Acton of Burns; sister, Patsy (Jim) Roehr of Cheyenne; sister-in-Law, Cheryl Houston of Aurora, CO; three grandchildren, Anthony, Addison and Gracie Acton; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Alzheimer’s Foundation or Davis Hospice-Cheyenne.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Cheyenne Frontier Days Buckle Club September 9, 2023 from 11 to 2. It will be a short service, family presentation and video, followed by fellowship with food and refreshments.