David Andrew Haise

David Andrew Haise, 29, formerly of Fort Collins, died July 30 at his home in Colorado Springs.

A man of rare character loved by many, David was born on January, 29, 1986, in Colorado Springs. His parents, Larry and Sheryl Haise of Fort Collins, then living in the Springs, adopted him with a sure sense of God's leading and rejoice now in what he became - a kindly soul with brisk wit, increasing thoughtfulness toward others and a flare for the dramatic.

While a student at Johnson Elementary School in Fort Collins, he appeared in a talent show dressed as silent screen era comic Charlie Chaplain. As he shuffled across the stage twirling a cane, parents gasped at the perfection of the likeness.

Years later while in the la-de-da Children's Theater in Fort Collins, David enjoyed performing in a stage version of Charles Dickens' novella, A Christmas Carol, performed yearly at the Lincoln Center. He also learned stagecraft.

In his high school years David loved taking part in the Passion Play offered annually by Timberline Church. One year with moving realism he portrayed one of the two thieves crucified with Christ.

David cherished the 1940's era, learning much about its war heroes and classic entertainers including Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, Jack Benny and Danny Kaye.

During his school years he impressed teachers with his intelligence, creativity and sensitive heart - and at times headstrong challenges to the status quo. Ten years after leaving Centennial High School in Fort Collins without graduating, he took the G.E.D. exam with no study. His scores were exceptionally high.

At the time of his death he was planning to enroll at Pikes Peak Community College and in time study stagecraft at the University of Colorado in Colorado Springs. His life was taking on new meaning.

In 2012, after years of struggling with addiction issues, David entered a Bible-based recovery program at the Wheeler Mission in Indianapolis. While there he recommitted his life to Christ, receiving God's gift of transformational faith. He began to pray beautifully and delve deeply into the Bible, thirsting for further spiritual discovery.

In time, with continuing difficulties, he entered the Springs Rescue Mission, another Christian recovery program. There he grew further in awareness of God's love for him and for all people. Also, he developed a fondness for the King James Version of the Bible.

David is survived by his parents and younger sister Besa, a large loving extended family and a devoted dog, Arlo.

A celebration of David's life will take place at 2 p.m. August 5 at Faith Evangelical Free Church, 3920 S. Shields St. in Fort Collins.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Springs Rescue Mission, 5 W. Las Vegas St., Colorado Springs, CO 80903 or Community Bible Study, 790 Stout Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80921.