David H. Waldeck

David H. Waldeck, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, at the age of 69. Born on September 5, 1956, David lived a life marked by curiosity, kindness, and an unwavering dedication to both his family and his passion for chemistry. Those who knew David best remember him as a brilliant mind with a heart of gold. As a chemist, he spent decades in the laboratory, always eager to unravel the mysteries of the natural world. But it was outside the lab where his true brilliance shone. David had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, whether he was hosting backyard barbecues, leading neighborhood science demonstrations for kids, or simply sharing his latest kitchen experiment (some more successful than others) with family and friends. His greatest joy was his family. David met his wife Sarah in graduate school, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and endless support for one another. He was a devoted father to his three children, never missing a soccer game, school play, or bedtime story. In recent years, he discovered a new kind of magic as "Papa" to his four grandchildren, who adored his silly songs, impromptu science lessons, and the way he could turn anything into a game. David's passions extended far beyond chemistry. He was an avid gardener who took pride in his prize-winning tomatoes, a mediocre but enthusiastic woodworker, and a lifelong learner who was always taking classes on everything from astronomy to Italian cooking. He believed in the power of education and spent countless hours volunteering at local schools, inspiring young minds to ask questions and never stop learning. The world feels a little less bright without David's warm smile and gentle wisdom. He touched countless lives through his work, his community involvement, and most importantly, his unwavering love for his family and friends. While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life lived with purpose, passion, and profound kindness. David's legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him, in the scientific discoveries he contributed to, and in the love he so freely gave to everyone he met.