November 2, 1964 – July 30, 2025
David Paul “Dave” Bangert, 60, passed away on July 30, 2025, in Grand Junction, Colorado. A man of remarkable spirit and boundless generosity, Dave left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Born on November 2, 1964, in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, Dave’s early years were shaped by a move at age 5 to Nashua, New Hampshire. There he grew up and graduated from Nashua High School before pursuing his passion for the outdoors at the University of Maine in Orono, where he earned a bachelor of science degree in forestry.
From a young age, Dave was drawn to sports and adventure. He played baseball, basketball and high school football. At 15, he discovered rock climbing, skiing, and ice climbing—interests that would become lifelong pursuits. In his mid-20s through early 40s, Dave worked as a mountain guide, leading expeditions across Alaska — including five seasons on Denali — the Cascades, and several international destinations. He played a key role in the formative years of the Ouray Ice Festival and collaborated with legendary climber Jeff Lowe to build the ice towers for the X-Games in Vail. As a sponsored climber with Wild Things, Dave not only represented excellence in mountaineering but also remained a steadfast supporter of the company.
Dave’s adventurous spirit extended beyond the mountains. He raced motorcycles for years before returning to golf — a sport he first enjoyed as a young boy with his father. His natural athleticism and competitive drive led him to excel once again.
Golf became more than just a game; it became a community for Dave. One of his greatest joys was serving as the golf coach for Ouray High School, where he shared his love for the sport with younger generations.
Professionally, Dave found fulfillment working in the forestry industry in Mountain Village, Colorado — a career that allowed him to combine his deep respect for nature with meaningful work throughout the Telluride and Mountain Village communities.
Dave loved his cabin off-grid as well as his home in Ouray and many friends he and his wife were surrounded by.
Dave was known not only for his accomplishments but also for his character. He was an incredible husband, brother, uncle, and friend— always ready to lend a hand without expectation or recognition. Whether pulling someone out of a ditch during a snowstorm or offering quiet support when it mattered most, Dave embodied selflessness and humility.
He is survived by his beloved wife Monica (Moran) Bangert; sister Susan Murphy (Hank); stepbrother Dean (Fran Solomon); stepsister Lori Solomon; nieces and nephews Cara (Adam) Marcionek; Ryan (Melinda) Murphy; Michael (Allie) Murphy; McKenna (Steven) Hunyh; Mary Kate Murphy (Andrew Arana); Stephanie (Dustin) O’Neal; step-niece Jill Solomon; step-nephews Keith (Lane) Solomon; Paul Solomon; 19 cherished great-nieces and nephews; and several cousins.
Dave was preceded in death by his mother Carmen Beatrice “Bea” Cox; father Dale Bangert; stepmother Jane Solomon; and sister Holly Alexander.
A celebration of Dave’s extraordinary life will be held at a future date, with family and friends who shared in his adventures and admired his unwavering kindness.
Dave was truly one of a kind — his memory will live on in every mountain climbed, every fairway walked, and every act of quiet generosity inspired by his example. May those who knew him find comfort in remembering the strength of his spirit and the depth of his love.
Ouray County Plaindealer • 2025
