With heavy hearts and a lifetime of wonderful memories, Kay Wetzler and her family share the unexpected passing of her beloved husband, Dave, on October 8, 2026, at the age of 80.

Dave was one of those people who brought energy, laughter, and a little mischief wherever he went. A fun-loving jokester with a quick wit and generous heart, he loved making people smile. Beneath his playful spirit was a man of deep faith, fairness, and compassion who loved his family, friends, and God wholeheartedly.

Born on March 1, 1946, in Boulder, Colorado, to Fred and Muriel Wetzler, Dave grew up in Fort Collins with his younger sister, Sandy. He spent the first 30 years of his life there, building friendships and developing interests that remained important to him throughout his life.

As a young man, Dave was an enthusiastic Boy Scout and remained active in scouting until the age of 18. He earned membership in the prestigious Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s national honor society, and ultimately achieved its highest distinction, the Vigil Honor. His love of sports was equally evident at Fort Collins High School, where he lettered in both baseball and basketball.

The most important chapter of Dave’s life began with Kay, his wife and partner of 57 years. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, friendship, and adventure. They shared the joys and challenges of raising their three children, Joylyn, David, and Drew, all of whom preceded Dave in death. Through life’s happiest moments and deepest sorrows, Dave’s love for Kay and his family remained steadfast.

When Dave and his family moved to Orange, California, he discovered another lifelong passion: soccer. What began as a family interest grew into decades of involvement in the sport. For 30 years, Dave coached, refereed, and participated in the state soccer association. He loved the competition and camaraderie and, perhaps most of all, the opportunity to encourage young athletes and be part of something bigger than himself.

Dave also believed in giving back to the communities he called home. He was especially active in Prescott Lakes, where he served on the Board of Directors. He brought to his community involvement the same qualities that defined his personal life: fairness, integrity, good judgment, and genuine concern for others.

His faith was a cornerstone of his life. As a devoted member of Willow Hills Baptist Church, Dave found strength, friendship, and purpose in his relationship with God and his church family.

Those who knew Dave will remember his lively personality, ready sense of humour, and ability to bring a little fun into almost any situation. He could make you laugh, but he could also be counted on when it mattered. He believed in doing the right thing, treating people fairly, and caring deeply for those around him.

Dave’s life was not without heartbreak, but it was rich in love, faith, friendship, and service. He leaves behind his beloved Kay, his sister Sandy, his nieces and nephews, countless treasured memories, and a legacy of kindness and laughter.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and surely greeted in heaven with a few good laughs.

Celebration of Life

A Celebration of Life honouring Dave will be held on November 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Willow Hills Baptist Church in Prescott, Arizona. Family and friends are invited to gather to remember Dave, share stories, and celebrate a life filled with love, laughter, and faith.

Memorial Donations

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations in Dave’s memory to either of the following organisations:

The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research — www.michaeljfox.org

Willow Hills Baptist Church Building Fund