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).
