Obituary

David John Zalfen, born December 28, 1952, in Houston, Texas, passed away Saturday, December 20, 2025, in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. 

David was a former resident of Baton Rouge and Denham Springs, Louisiana, as well as Lumberton, Texas. He was employed at Dogwood Energy and proudly served in the United States Navy. In his free time, he enjoyed cooking, golfing, and woodworking. 

David leaves behind many loved ones who will always cherish his memory. He was the beloved husband of Holly Hoefle Smith Zalfen, by second marriage, and the late Pamela Otillio Zalfen, by first marriage. He was a loving father to Tracey Kinchen and husband Casey of Houston, Texas; Michelle Jones and husband Josh of Denham Springs, Louisiana; and Jonathan Zalfen and wife Laura of Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was also a stepfather to Joshua Hoefle Smith of Lee’s Summit, Missouri. 

David is survived by his mother Mary Zalfen of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; his brothers Ronald Zalfen and wife Robyhn of Brusly, Louisiana, and Warren Zalfen Jr. and wife Rozanne of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and his seven grandchildren: Matthew, Brandon, Mason, Ethan, Logan, Olivia, and Aubrey. 

He was preceded in death by his father, Warren Zalfen Sr., and stepson Noah Smith. 

A memorial service will be held Monday, January 19, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at Abundant Life Church in Lee’s Summit, Missouri.