David James Heath, 62, died suddenly of a heart attack on Friday, May 2nd, 2025 in Laramie, Wyoming. He was born on January 5th, 1963, in Decatur, Illinois, to James and Patricia Heath and was an avid fisherman all his life. His father’s Navy career took the family to several states, including two years in Australia. They eventually settled in Sheridan, Wyoming, where Dave finished high school and developed an interest in photography while working in his father’s studio.
After attending Northwest College in Powell, Wyoming, Dave served a mission in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where he became a lifelong “fisher of men.” There he met Debbie French, the love of his life. They married on August 1st, 1986, in the Mesa, Arizona temple and started their life in Laramie, Wyoming, where they welcomed their children Katie, Jacob, and Aaron. Dave earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology, with minors in chemistry and biology, and later, a master’s in public administration.
Dave lived a life of genuine service, both personally and professionally. He spent many years advocating for people with disabilities, including 15 years at ARK Regional Services and 20 years at Wyoming Institute for Disabilities. He concluded his career working in HR and chemical disposal at the University of Wyoming. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Dave’s love for the Savior shone through his sincere service. Those around him could feel the strength of his testimony, the depth of his faith, his calming presence and his ability to listen deeply.
A man of many hobbies, Dave loved cooking Chinese food, smoking meat, tying flies, playing racquetball, biking, camping, bird watching, wood working, and photography. He taught many friends to fish and tie flies. Dave had a green thumb and was very handy at fixing things. He loved wearing crocs, sweatshirts, and Hawaiian shirts. His fashion sense was impeccable.
Dave and Debbie complemented each other well with almost 39 years together. He loved spending time with his kids and grandkids, who always asked for “Papa” first. He never missed a chance to talk about his family with pride and joy. In his final week, Dave did the things he loved most, truly living life to the fullest. His family will miss him deeply.
David Heath was preceded in death by family members James Heath, Nolan Freeman, and Katherine Jane Heath. He is survived by his mother Patricia Heath Freeman of Firth, Idaho; his sisters Keely Heath Ziegler of Atlanta, Georgia and Karen Penman (Jeff) of Ogden, Utah; his wife Debbie French Heath; his children Katie Winters (Mike) of Otto, Wyoming, Jacob Heath (Aimee) of Rock Springs, Wyoming, and Aaron Heath (Ashley) of Denver, Colorado; and his beloved grandchildren Josiah, Caleb, Camden, Madelyn, Clara, Kennedy, Raegan, Eliza, and Callan. Services will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. and funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3311 Hayford Laramie, WY. Services will be broadcasted at (https://zoom.us/j/99450714339).
Debbie and Family: David was a wonderful colleague and neighbor. I had the pleasure of working with him at UW, and he brought a calmness to every situation. He was a caring neighbor -- always willing to step in to help. He will be missed by many. My thoughts are with you.
Debbie - My heart goes out to you. I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of your husband. Our memories are what keep up moving forward and keep them in our hearts forever. Take strength from your beautiful children and grandchildren. Your love for each other will help you get through this difficult time.
Oh how we love the Heath family! A bright light in our first foray into the world after college. Listening and learning in our Kenosha ward ( Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints). These are the people who set our feet on the Good Path. We are grateful for every minute we spent with and were loved by this family. God be with us always💕
I wish I had known Dave. Please accept my condolences, Pat and Karen. Losing a son and a brother so suddenly is so difficult. Love, Verda Miller
Debbi, I'm so sorry for the loss of your sweet husband, the father of your children and the dear friend to many that loved him. I wish I could just throw my arms around you and hug away your tears! My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your children and extended family. While this loss will hurt forever, the pain will become easier to bear as you gather loved ones around you and find comfort and grace from their their strength and love. Angels will gather round, I promise! I love you always, Gee Gee
Dear friends, I pray for peace for your family during this time of loss. Rita Rivard-Carson
Pat, Debbie and family, we are saddened to hear of your loss of David. Our hearts are with you at this sad time, with love and prayers AMEN
We are so sorry to learn of Dave’s passing. Please know of our love for you & all your family at this difficult time. How blessed we are with the knowledge we have. Love to each of you.💗
My condolences to you and your family. I am soo sorry. Sending hugs and prayers ❤️ May our good God wrap his arms around you all and give you strength and comfort during this difficult time. May he rest in paradise 🙏 💔 My heart breaks for you my beautiful friend ❤️
I'm sorry for your loss, Debbie. Although I only met him a few times, he left a lasting impression of kindness and calm.
I worked with Dave at WIND, what a kind genuine soul he was. I am so very sad for you and your family Debbie. You and Dave, both are, were beautiful people. Your family will continue to be in my prayers.
Hugs & Prayers ! Sweet Gal
Katie, I am so very sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my prayers. I know you will miss him deeply. Sending love, Cheryl Rodgers
Debbie and Family: So sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. My heart just breaks for you for the loss of such an amazing human. May your warm memories comfort you and Gods peace be with your family. Tammy Comer
Heath Family, I had the pleasure of working with Dave during my short time at WIND many years ago and again when he moved to HR. He was a wonderful colleague and I am grateful to have known him. So sorry for your loss. Amanda (O'Brien) Busick
Dear Debbie and Family, you and Dave have made a tremendous difference in the world one kind word and gesture at a time. His legacy lives on in the beautiful, loving, growing family the two of you created and nurtured and in all the lives you've touched over the years, including mine. Your love is forever!! I'm so sorry for your loss. Love, Stephanie Weaver-Gualazzini
Dear Debbie, our life and marriage are better for having known you and Dave. Your tender influence in our early years fills me with precious memories, and I pray that a measure of that peace will continue with you now and always.