David Tromp

David Jerry Tromp, 83, “Dave”, of Missoula, Montana, passed away on Tuesday, April 21st, 2026, at home from natural causes.

He was born on October 1st, 1942, in Missoula, Montana, to Carol Owens and Orie “Boots” Tromp, the fifth born out of eight children. His family moved often, living all over Western Montana up to the highline. He went to high school in Ronan, Montana, and graduated in 1961. He then hitchhiked to Kalispell to start his job with the Forest Service doing trail work and fighting fires.

He met his wife, Jan Tromp “Wiggin,” after being set up by mutual friends. Their first date was at a drive-in movie, and they went steady for three years before getting married on February 27, 1965. They had their first child, Kristine, in 1968, and then Kenny in 1971. Jan and Dave shared an enduring love for 61 years.

Dave was a hard worker throughout his life. He served 4 years in the Army Reserve. His lifelong job was in the lumber mill industry for a dedicated 44 years. After long days at the mill, he still cooked up the malamute, Kena, a hot meal. On his days off, he took care of his grandkids, making the best animal-shaped hot cakes, coloring, and reading National Geographic with them.

Once Dave retired from the lumber mill, he spent his time relaxing at home, working in the yard, reading, going to airshows, and attending car races with family. Most days, he took a bike ride along the river with a picnic pit stop to enjoy a beer. Later in life, he enjoyed watching after his adopted pets, Rascal and Avery.

Dave was a thoughtful, caring person. He showed great pride in his family and their accomplishments. He also enjoyed learning about nature and cars.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Mary Rieben and Nancy Bisson; two brothers, Gary and Allen Tromp.

He is survived by his wife Janice Tromp; his children Kenny Tromp and Kristine Tromp of Missoula; and grandchildren Brittany Clark and Tanner Tromp. He also leaves behind his sisters Norma Sirucek of St. Ignatius and Lucille Johnson of Trout Creek; Gus Tromp of Lolo; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial Services will be held on May 9th, 2026, at 10:30 am at First Christian Church of Missoula, Montana. Graveside services with Military Honors will follow at Lake View Cemetery in Polson, Montana, at 3:00 pm.