David Allen Godfread

David Allen Godfread, of Grand Forks, North Dakota, passed away peacefully, leaving a legacy defined by integrity, service, and quiet leadership. He was born in Minot to Frank and Ruth Godfread and raised in Stanley, North Dakota. Dave graduated from Stanley High School and attended the University of North Dakota from 1965–1969 on a basketball scholarship, majoring in physical education and mathematics.

While at UND, Dave met the love of his life, Judy. They were married on July 3, 1970, and together built a family that was always his greatest pride. He was the devoted father of three sons—Marc, Jeff, and Jon—and a proud grandfather to Madison, Brenna, Ava, Braedon, Jamison, Dylan, Harrison, Reagan, and Thatcher, and great-grandfather to Colter and Wells.

Dave lived a life grounded in hard work and service. After his playing career, he coached and taught at Garrison and Bottineau High Schools before joining the University of Mary as an associate basketball coach, where he was part of one of the most successful eras in program history. He was later inducted into the University of Mary Hall of Fame for Meritorious Service.

In 1983, after earning a master’s degree in education with an emphasis in administration, Dave transitioned into school leadership. He served as principal at Saint Mary’s Central High School in Bismarck and later in Grand Forks as associate principal at South Middle School, principal at Community High School, and director of Adult Learning. He retired in 2009 after 20 years of service.

Of all his roles, being a high school principal meant the most to him. He believed students were more than their mistakes, once saying, “The neat thing about alternative high schools is that the students always can come back and fix their mistakes.” He dedicated his career to students who needed second chances, offering structure, accountability, and belief in their potential.

Dave was a man of few words who led by example. Outside of work, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, watching sports, tinkering in the garage, and time with family, especially Sunday omelets after church. His familiar advice “Make it last,” and “You’re burning daylight” reflected how he lived.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Ruth Godfread; his brother, Charles; and several in-laws and extended family members.

Dave is survived by his wife Judy; his sons and their families; and generations of students, athletes, and friends who were shaped by his steady guidance. His legacy lives on in every life he influenced through integrity, effort, and doing what is right.

A Memorial Service: Celebrating Dave’s life will be held in Grand Forks, North Dakota, in late April or early May, when family and friends can gather to remember a life well lived.

The online memorial registry may be signed at www.normanfuneral.com
(The Historic Norman Funeral Home, Grand Forks, ND)