David Charles Fugatt

David “Dave” Charles Fugatt, age 51, of Whitefish, MT passed away September 7, 2022. He was born February 8, 1971 in Panama City, FL to Daniel L. Fugatt and the late Audrey Gail Mensching (Hamrick).

Everybody loved Dave-full stop. Dave was a fun-loving, patient, big-hearted man who gave the best hugs. To know Dave was to love Dave. He had a genuine interest in everyone he met, and made a point to find the good in them. He would help anyone with anything at the drop of a hat. He had a great warmth and southern charm that his little old lady PT patients especially responded to. Dave had so much love to give and we were all so fortunate to have been touched by it. He grew up in Ft Myers, FL and graduated from Mariner High School in Cape Coral, FL. He studied geriatrics at University of South Florida, then went on to pursue a degree in physical therapy from Hogeschool Eindhoven in Eindhoven, Netherlands. Here, Dave met the love of his life, Jennifer, whom he was married to for 21 years. He worked as a physical therapist for many years in Ft Myers before they headed out on the adventure of a lifetime in an RV, named Zanzy. They toured and lived in several Rocky Mountain States before settling in Whitefish, MT. He was happiest when out on the water, boating and fishing. Dave and dogs had a special bond. From his own dogs: Rusty, Ruby, Charlie, and Woody, to his relatives’ and friends’ dogs, there was never an unwagged tail or unscratched butt in Dave’s presence. Dave’s love of music meant he always had his speaker on and turned up loud, and that he enjoyed many live concerts with Jen and friends. His favorite Saturday pastime was outdoor BBQ’s watching college football, especially cheering on his FL Gators. He also loved golfing, downhill skiing, and spending time with family and friends. He was the favorite uncle to his niece and numerous nephews. Some of his favorite spots in Whitefish were City Beach, State Park, and Wag Dog Park.
Dave is survived by his wife, Jennifer Morton Fugatt; sister, Angela Harwood (Andy); brother, Robbie Mensching; sister, Kelley Davies (Allen); nephew, Drew Harwood; father, Dan Fugatt (Sharon); and best friend/brother, Jeff Cindrich. In addition to his mother, Dave is preceded in death by grandparents, Mini and PeePaw Fugatt.

A celebration of David “Dave” Charles Fugatt’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 13, 2022 at Columbia Mortuary, 1010 4th Avenue West, Columbia Falls, MT 59912. Family and friends may begin to visit on Tuesday starting at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Wag Dog Park in Whitefish, MT. Currently there is a community giving event, The Great Fish Community Challenge, which multiplies donations made by September 16. Please visit Whitefishcommunityfoundation.org and search “Whitefish Dog Park”, enter Dave’s name in the “Recognition Name” field. To send online condolences, please visit www.austinfh.com. Livestream will be available Tuesday, please call for further information 406-892-4289 or click on the link below to watch up to 90 days.

https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/authorise.php?k=1662778313207265

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