A Life of Kindness Leaves a Lasting Legacy at MSUM

When those closest to David Deschene remember him, they do not first talk about his career success, his travels, or even his remarkable generosity.

They talk about his kindness.

David Deschene spent his life building relationships, helping others, and making people feel seen. Through a transformational estate gift to the MSUM Foundation, his kindness and generosity will now continue helping students for generations to come.

Following his passing in April 2025, David left the MSUM Foundation 1,025 shares of Marriott stock valued at more than $350,000. His gift established the David Deschene Endowed Scholarship, which will support MSUM students pursuing their education and future careers.

For Mary, the gift reflects exactly who her brother was. “He wanted to be a helping hand,” she said.

A Childhood That Shaped His Character

David grew up in Roseau, Minnesota, one of five siblings. He and Mary, the two oldest children, were especially close throughout their lives.

Their childhood was not always easy, and Mary believes those experiences shaped David’s outlook on life. “I think that’s why he decided early on that he was going to be kind,” she said.

And kind he was.

David had an extraordinary ability to connect with people. He remembered names effortlessly and made a point of addressing everyone personally when he spoke with them. Whether talking with coworkers, neighbors, restaurant employees, or new acquaintances, he made people feel important. “He was a people person through and through,” Mary said.

Finding Opportunity at MSUM

David attended Minnesota State Moorhead and graduated in 1976 with a degree in business administration with an emphasis in marketing.

Paying for college was not easy. Although financial help may have been available, David largely funded his education himself. The experience taught him the importance of hard work, responsibility, and saving money.

His time at MSUM also helped prepare him for a successful career built around leadership and relationships. “Because of his hard work and dedication, along with the education he received at Moorhead State (as it was called then), he is able to offer this scholarship to you in hope of helping you succeed in your chosen field,” a note from Mary said.

Shortly after graduation, David headed west to Arizona, determined to avoid another Minnesota winter. He eventually built a successful career in the hospitality and food service industry. He began as the manager of a Jack-in-the-Box restaurant before moving to California, where he worked for the Marriott hotel chain overseeing food services. He later finished his career managing the food court at the Miramar military base in San Diego. His highlight there was getting to ride on Air Force One.

No matter where he lived or worked, David built friendships everywhere he went. His favorite part of every job was always the people.

David Deschene

A Final Chapter Surrounded by Care

In the summer of 2024, David’s health began to decline. By this time, he had moved back to Arizona, and from there he called Mary in Minnesota with a simple but heartfelt request. “I’ve got some health issues, and I need you,” he told her. Mary immediately traveled to California to help care for her brother. Following complications from a severe leg infection, David underwent surgery to amputate part of his leg and later began rehabilitation and physical therapy.

Together, the siblings found an assisted living facility where David quickly felt at home. “It was so welcoming and he just loved it there,” Mary said. Even during difficult health challenges, David continued doing what he always had done best — connecting with people. He made friends with fellow residents and nursing staff and regularly called Mary to tell her about activities, conversations, and daily life at the facility.

Not long afterward, David suffered a heart attack. Mary once again rushed to be by his side. David passed away on April 28, 2025, at the age of 71.

A Legacy That Will Help Students for Generations

Although David never married or had children of his own, his impact will continue through the students whose lives will be changed by the scholarship created in his name. The David Deschene Endowed Scholarship reflects the values that guided his life: hard work, perseverance, generosity, and kindness.

For future MSUM students, his gift represents more than financial support. It represents opportunity. It represents someone who understood the challenges of paying for college and wanted to make the path a little easier for others. And perhaps most importantly, it reflects a man who spent his life lifting people up.

Through this scholarship, David Deschene’s kindness will continue to open doors and create possibilities for generations of Dragons to come.