David Robert Vangsness, age 78 of Cannon Falls, died unexpectedly on Oct 4, 2013. Funeral Service will be 11:00 am Wednesday, October 9, 2013 at St. Ansgar's Lutheran Church, 7459 Hwy 19 Blvd, Cannon Falls. Interment will be in the Cannon Falls Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday, October 8, 2013 from 5:00-8:00pm at Lundberg Funeral Home, 5839 Hwy 19 Blvd, Cannon Falls and also for one hour prior to service at church. Memorials may be directed to the Cannon Falls Lions Club or St. Ansgar's Lutheran Church. 

David Robert Vangsness was born December 20, 1934 in Rochester, Minnesota to Alfred and Selma (Monson) Vangsness. He grew up on the family farm near Hader, Minnesota and was baptized and confirmed at Minneola Lutheran Church. After graduating from Wanamingo High School in 1952 he attended the University of Minnesota before taking a job in highway construction. In 1959 he met the love of his life, Sharon Ekstrom, and the two of them were joined in marriage on March 26, 1960 at St. Ansgar's Lutheran in Cannon Falls. They moved to Red Wing where they started their family while David worked at Johnson Tire. In 1968 they moved to Cannon Falls where David operated Lindahl Tire for several years. The later years of his career were spent in a variety of agricultural related sales opportunities. David had a special way of connecting with others which served him well as a friend to many. Many will remember David as an outgoing story teller with a good sense of humor. He loved to build and create things. David cherished time spent with his family. They enjoyed many years at their cabin near Cumberland, WI, which is where they hosted many events including their 39 pig roasts. He was a longtime dedicated member of the Cannon Falls Lions Club where he served as treasurer and was also active at St. Ansgar's Lutheran Church. David was proud member of the Cannon Falls Fire Department. He never gave up despite his recent health concerns and was always ready to do things for others. His life, legacy and sense of humor continue to bless the hearts of those he knew. 

He is survived by his wife Sharon of Cannon Falls; children, Steve Vangsness of Farmington, Michelle (Lyle) Zappa of Eagan, Mike Vangsness of Minneapolis and Jeff (Teresa) of Roberts, WI; grandchildren, Ashley (Andy) Nelson of Chanhassen, Jaime Zappa (Matt Rodstein) of St. Louis Park, David Zappa of Ames, IA, Dylan Vangsness of Hudson, WI, Tyler and Abbey Vangsness of Maumelle, AR, Mitchell and Sally Vangsness of Roberts, WI; great-granddaughter, Annabelle Grace Nelson of Chanhassen; brother Stanley of Rochester; and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, John Vangsness.

Source: Lundberg Funeral Home, Cannon Falls, MN