David Sage

David Alan Sage, 73, formerly of Poplar, died June 25, 2025, in Billings.

Born on March 13, 1952, in Poplar, he was a 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!”

He 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.

He was a man of quiet strength, sharp wit and deep loyalty. His grandsons’ energy and curiosity brought a special kind of light to his later years.

He is survived by his wife, Gayle (Wagenhals) Sage; two daughters, Marissa Sage and Britt Ritchie; two grandsons; brother, Mike Sage; and sister, Tana Harp.

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