David "Dave" Dengel

Nov 4, 1954 -

Sep 10, 2020

David "Dave" Dengel, 65, passed away in Valdez, Alaska, on Sept. 10, 2020. He battled pancreatic cancer valiantly before finally succumbing to the disease.

Dave was born in Sparta, Wis., to Lucille E. and Robert W. Dengel. His birth was followed by brothers Douglas and Donald. Dave graduated from Sparta High School with cross-country, track and music accolades and attended University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in resource management. Dave continued his education at University of Montana, Missoula, receiving his Masters of Rural Planning.

Dave met his wife Leila while competing in endurance races in Thompson Falls, Mont. They spent most of their married lives in Alaska, where Dave took various city development/management positions around the state including Kodiak, Yakutat, Cordova and finally Valdez, where they put down roots and raised their two children, Bart and Camy. Dave was proud of their children and enjoyed helping them pursue their goals and dreams.

Dave served as the Valdez City Manager from 1998-2005. He went on to be the CEO of Copper Valley Telecom for over 12 years, where he led the company into its present technological level. He was instrumental in advocating for the entire industry in both Alaska and Washington, D.C.

As a dedicated father and leader in the Valdez community, Dave was active in many community and state organizations, including the Alaska Gasline Port Authority, Valdez Hospital Board, Alaska Telecom Association, Valdez Youth Court, Valdez Torpedoes Swim Club, Valdez High School Ski Team and Valdez Fireweed 400. Dave loved to use his skills to make the world a better place. He was the consummate planner. He had a passion for doing things right and a passion for life.

After retiring in 2017, Dave and Leila spent many nights on the road, roaming the western states in their beloved Westfalia Volkswagen Camper Van.

Dave is survived by wife Leila, of Valdez; son, Barton Dengel and wife Catalina and granddaughter Hope, all of Anchorage, Alaska; and daughter, Camrin Dengel and partner Cameron Mitchell of Tetonia, Idaho. He was predeceased by his parents, Bob and Lucy.

He will be greatly missed every day, especially during Green Bay Packer games. If you partake of a good whiskey and cigar or navigate the Valdez Ski Trails, bike a good mountain trail, or boat Alaskan waters, send up a high-five to Dave.

A memorial service will be held at a later date in Valdez. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the Providence Valdez Medical Center, P.O. Box 550, Valdez, AK 99686; or Epiphany Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 829, Valdez, AK 99686.