David Alan Sage

David Allen Sage, age 73, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2025, in Billings, Montana, after a hard-fought battle with cancer.

Born on March 13, 1952, in Poplar, Montana, David was a proud graduate of Poplar High School, Class of 1970, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Montana State University in 1974. A loyal Bobcat through and through, he never missed a chance to say "Go Cats!"

David began his career as a Federal Bank Examiner, but the pull of the land—and the promise of the sky-was stronger. He returned home to northeast Montana and embraced his lifelong calling as a wheat farmer. Rain was music to his ears, and the rhythm of rural life shaped his days and values. His dedication to agriculture was evident in every acre he tended and every board he served on, including as President of the Montana Grain Growers Association from 1993 to 1994.

David was a man of quiet strength, sharp wit, and deep loyalty. He was devoted to his wife of many years, Gayle (Wagenhals) Sage, and proud of his two daughters, Marissa Sage. and Britt (Todd) Ritchie, along with his two beloved grandsons, Logan and Dylan Ritchie, whose energy and curiosity brought a special kind of light to his later years.

He is also survived by his brother Mike (Suzanne) Sage, his sister Tana Harp, and many cherished nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Dorris Sage, his niece, Melissa Sage, and his brother-in-law, Bill Harp

At David's request, no services will be held. In his honor, you might consider taking a quiet moment to listen to the rain, cheer on the Bobcats, or simply pause to appreciate the open sky.

David's legacy lives on in the fields he farmed, the family he loved, and the community he helped shape. He will be deeply missed.