David Aaron Hudson, 71, of Piedmont, South Dakota, passed away peacefully at home on August 2, 2025, surrounded by family, just as he wished.
Dave was born to Bill and Francine Hudson (Aijala) on April 15, 1954, in Deadwood, South Dakota. From a young age, he had a deep love for nature and motorcycles. In the early 1970s, he began working as a mechanic under the guidance of Louie Dippert, then went on to work at the Ford garage in Rapid City. In 1977, Dave opened his own shop, Dave’s Auto, in Piedmont, South Dakota, where he earned a reputation for being honest, capable, and endlessly resourceful, able to fix nearly anything and always eager to help someone in need. Later, he took pride in expanding his work by opening Elk Creek Auto Sales.
In the early 1970s, Dave was married to Darnell Gilman and started his family where they welcomed four children: Heidi, David, Scott, and Penny. He was proud to raise his kids with strong family values and a love for the outdoors. His dedication as a father remained a constant throughout his life.
In 1998, Dave married Colleen Miller on June 19th in Rapid City, South Dakota. Together, they extended their family and shared a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Through this union, Dave welcomed Brandon into his life as a son, further adding to their blended family.
A lifelong outdoorsman and motorcycle enthusiast, Dave found joy in riding dirt bikes to road bikes and everything in between. He earned multiple awards, including one for riding over 100,000 miles on a BMW. He also had a large collection of trophies from motocross and enduro races. He enjoyed time with friends, hosting Monday night pool games in his game room and competing in pool league on Thursday nights. Whether it was over a game of pool or a cup of coffee, he valued his friendships. He also loved fishing, hunting, golfing, camping, collecting antiques, and spending time with his dogs.
Dave was kind, humble, and generous. His optimism and humor left a mark on everyone he met. Whether sharing old music, telling stories, or helping a stranger on the side of the road, Dave made you feel like you’d known him forever. He lived simply but fully, and he taught those around him to value family, friendship, and the beauty of everyday life.
He often said, “It is what it is” and “It could always be worse,” reminders of his grounded, optimistic spirit.
In his final weeks, Dave fulfilled his wish to remain at home, surrounded by those he loved. His days were filled with family dinners, one last fishing trip, a visit to the new Sugar Shack, scenic drives through the Black Hills, and a stream of visitors and calls, who reminded him of the lasting impact he made.
He is survived by his wife Colleen and children: Heidi (Todd) Anderson, David Hudson, Scott Hudson, Penny (Scott) Wetch, and Brandon (Jill) Miller. Mother-in-law: Cleo Miller. Grandchildren: Nicole (Brandon) Bisgaard, Renae (Jake) Trujillo, Kayla Anderson, Sara Wetch, Kartney Hudson, and Ryan Wetch. Great-grandchildren: Avery and Hudson Bisgaard. Siblings: Lenny Tollefson, Greg (Sandy) Hudson, Mary Jane (Shannon) O’Grady, Billy Hudson, Wayne Hudson, Brad Hudson, and brother-in-law Jim Miller, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Francine Hudson; his father-in-law, Wally Miller; and his beloved grandsons, Travis and Kasey Hudson.
A memorial service will be held at Grace United Methodist Church in Piedmont, South Dakota, on Saturday, August 9th, at 10:30 a.m., with lunch to follow. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in honor of Dave to help create a lasting tribute at a location in Piedmont, to be determined by his family. This memorial will serve as a meaningful way to celebrate his life and the community he loved. The family is deeply grateful for your support as they honor his memory in this special way.