David Allan Witsoe

David Witsoe was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1940 and passed away on Marrowstone Island, Washington, on August 5, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Sophia Witsoe; his brother, Paul Witsoe; and his grandson, Sean Witsoe. 

David earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota and a master’s degree in electrical and biomedical engineering from the Rochester Institute of Technology. His career in healthcare engineering included work related to the Apollo space missions, patents that contributed to modern-day electrical measurement of heart health, and advances in dialysis technology during his 30 years at Baxter Healthcare. After retirement, he helped start Peace Lutheran Church, founded on values of Christianity and tolerance, and served as its finance chair until recently. 

David—and Dad—leaves behind his loving wife, Audrey. They spent an entire life together and would have celebrated 62 years of marriage next month. Dad also leaves four children and eight grandchildren, who will miss him dearly. He often said he was most proud that his children not only got along, but truly enjoyed each other’s company. 

Dad’s early life began with tragedy when he lost his father at age three. His extended family and community rallied around him, his mother, and his six-month-old brother. That experience shaped his lifelong appreciation for community and the importance of a social safety net. He and Mom carried those values forward by supporting a local school backpack program that provides food for children in need, along with numerous other charities. 

Aside from family, Dad’s passions were sailing, skiing, and fixing anything—all of which he did incredibly well. He continued skiing until age 84. A well-set sail or a groomer ride down his favorite “Simba” ski run in Colorado brought him great joy, but most importantly, these activities brought his family together. 

Dad could fix anything, but today he can’t fix our broken hearts. He and Mom built love, values, faith, and respect deep into our family, and those gifts will allow us to heal each other over time. We’ll cry together this week—but still laugh together most often.

Family and friends may share memories of David and sign the online guestbook.