Dave Anfenson

David ‘Dave’ Erik Anfenson, age 38, died on September 27, 2024, in Waco, TX. “A service will be held on October 28th at 11 am at Seventh & James Baptist Church in Waco.

Dave was born May 17, 1986, in St. Cloud, MN to Gary and Cindy (Anderson) Anfenson. He graduated from Tech High School and furthered his education at the University of Sioux Falls and post college education at Baylor University, where he graduated with honors.

Dave became a Medical Chaplain soon after graduation wherehe cared for patients all around the Beaumont and Clifton, TX areas. Dave loved being a Chaplain and hearing people’s stories. He would often tell his patients that the difference between a pastor and a chaplain is that a pastor likes to talk and a chaplain likes to listen. 

He enjoyed meeting folks from every walk of life and learning their favorite songs so he could sing and play them on his guitar. A favorite quote which hung in his office read, “there are so many gods, so many creeds, so many paths that wind and wind, while just the art of being kind is all a sad world needs.” 

Dave Anfenson met Chelsea Maxwell in 2013 and they were married the next year. Emma Marie was born to Dave and Chelsea in 2020. They also cared for several foster children over the years and adopted their two beautiful daughters, Julie and Lexi, in 2021. Their family branches further to include Kai and Ian as they cared for them, as well.

Dave will be remembered as someone who loved his family, disc golfing, swimming with his kids, giving Emma shoulder rides and seeing his children happy. He was passionate about advocating for those who were pushed to the margins. He engaged in difficult conversations with boldness and compassion, leading with empathy and kindness as he offered various perspectives. 

Dave is survived by his wife, Chelsea, their daughters, Julie, Lexi and Emma; his parents, Gary and Cindy; his siblings, Kari(Kenny) Bristol and Tara (Steve) Rustad; and his nephews and nieces, Josiah, Kira, Grace, Hannah and Jonah; along with a community that will deeply miss his caring heart.

We hope Dave finds the peace in death he so greatly longed for in life.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations to be made in Dave’s honor to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. You might also consider donating here to help set the girls up for their future success, such as college, weddings, and anything else they can dream.