
November 10, 1951 — May 6, 2026
For his final act, Dave Tindall passed from this world in hope of surprising his beloved Celia on her heavenly birthday, May 6.
David Arnold Tindall was born on Nov. 10, 1951, to William (Bill) and Margaret Tindall in San Diego, CA. A few weeks later, Margaret and the children joined Bill on the family ranch in Grasmere, ID, where Dave was raised. He attended primary school in Bruneau and completed his high school years at Owyhee High School—where, if given the chance, he would proudly remind you that he still holds several records. Dave graduated in 1971.
In 1972, Dave was drafted into the U.S. Army, serving his country for two years with the 8th Infantry Division, including time stationed in Germany. After returning home, he attended college at College of Southern Idaho, where he reconnected with a former classmate, Celia Black. Their courtship led to marriage on Jan. 14, 1978.
Dave and Celia spent the following years building both their family and the ranch that meant so much to them. During this time, Dave became deeply involved in numerous agricultural organizations, including the Owyhee Cattlemen’s Association, Idaho Cattlemen’s Association, and the Beef Checkoff, among others. As their children became active in 4-H, Dave and Celia served as leaders for more than 20 years, dedicating themselves to youth development and showing the importance of giving back to the community.
Dave also spent over a decade serving on the Bruneau-Grand View School District Board and frequently volunteered as a chaperone for school dances and activities. Through these roles, he helped shape and guide many young people throughout the community. As the years went by, Dave continued his service through organizations such as the Bruneau Legion and by serving for more than 20 years on the Desert Sage Clinic Board. Giving back to the community was something he deeply believed in. He also greatly enjoyed his involvement with the Frontier Boys.
Dave worked hard and played hard. He loved a good time and an even better practical joke. He will be remembered for countless pranks—some of which he took with him to the grave.
A special thanks to the entire Boise VA, but big thanks to the Red Team. In 2021, Dave was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer. His determination to return to the ranch he loved carried him through the toughest days. Even then, he remained active—attending high school sporting events and seemingly popping up everywhere, often to everyone’s surprise.
Dave was always the first to say how much he loved his life and his work on the ranch. He was proud to continue the legacy of the family ranch that his great-grandfather had homesteaded in 1885. His years of experience and hard-earned wisdom made him someone many in the community sought out—whether the advice was requested or not. His knowledge of the country and the land will be deeply missed.
Dave was many things to many people, but above all, the way he wanted to be remembered was simple: a rancher, a husband, a father, a grandfather and a positive influence on society.
David is survived by his children: Matthew (Lisa) of Bruneau, ID; Sue (Philip) Law of Glenns Ferry, ID; Brooke of Bruneau, ID; Jennifer (Jake) Bigelow of Emmett, ID; Patrick (Tristin) of Andrews, TX; and Zachery of Grasmere, ID; grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his sister, Greta of Russell Springs, KY; his brother, Eugene (Mary) of Bruneau, ID; and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews and cousins, as well as one high-performance ranch cat. He is preceded in death by his wife, beloved Celia; his parents, William and Margaret Tindall; and his brother, Kenneth Tindall.
Memorials: American Legion Post 83, P.O. Box 582, Bruneau, ID 83604; Bruneau Quick Response Unit, P.O. Box 294, Bruneau, ID 83604; Bruneau Canyon 4-H Club, 43204 Hwy. 78, Bruneau, ID 83604.
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