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Dave Laut Obituary
Dave Laut was born on December 21, 1956 and left us too soon on August 27, 2009.
Dave was a proud son, husband, father, brother, uncle, and a friend to many people. He attended our local schools and graduated from Santa Clara High School in 1975 where he was a standout athlete in football, track & field, and basketball.
He continued his athletic career at Moorpark College, San Jose City College, and then landed on the track team for UCLA.
One of Dave's proudest moments came when he was first handed and wore his USA uniform after qualifying for the 1984 Olympic Trials. That was superseded by the crowning moment of receiving the Bronze Medal for the shot-put during the same year at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Needless to say, the family and the community were very proud of Dave of his accomplishment. Dave taught at Santa Clara High School in Biology and Anatomy/Physiology. And over the years, he served the athletic department in various capacities.
He also took the time to be the Assistant Track & Field Coach at Ventura College. He continued his educational career and received his Masters Degree in Physical Education at Azusa Pacific University.
It wasn't much time later, Dave found his way to Hueneme High School as a faculty member and as a coach once again. Soon thereafter, Dave was selected to serve as the Athletic Director for the Hueneme High School. There is no doubt he enjoyed his new position and was eager to coach the youth of our community.
A short version of the many titles and records Dave has to his credit besides the Bronze Medal are: 1982 American Record of 72ft. 3in., Gold Medal 1979 Pan American Games, NCAA Shot-put Champion 1978 & 1979, PAC-10 Conference Champion 1979 while serving as Team Captain, State Junior College Shot-put Champion 1977 San Jose City College, and the USA-USSR Dual Meet Record holder at 71feet 5.5 in. at Indianapolis, Indiana.
Besides the athletic career, Dave had a personal life too. He was a giant of a man to his family and his friends. Dave was indeed the foundation to his family and he very much loved being a Dad.
It was very common for Dave and Jane to work side by side in their front yard while keeping an eye on their son, Michael.
Of course, he too loved his two German Shepherd Dogs and his cats.
Dave leaves behind his Wife, Jane, his Son Michael, his Mother Dotty Laut, his Brother Don Laut, his Sister-In-Law Rebecca Laut, Nephews Aaron Laut & Cody Laut, and his Niece, Megan Laut. Dave will be missed. But there is no doubt, he will never be forgotten
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gregg tafralis
September 23, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Sue Derr
September 19, 2009
Jane and Family,
Needless to say I was shocked when I heard what happened to Dave. I'll always remember our good times at Santa Clara, playing volleyball, watching track....having your Mother always on the ready with her station wagon....She saved us many a time....
Know that my prayers are with you honey and please give all of your family my regards.
Sue Derr
September 18, 2009
I was so very fortunate to have been a roommate of Dave's at UCLA. He was a great, wonderful guy. Boy, did we have a lot of laughs. I was blessed to have known him. I haven't spoken to him in years, but I am heartbroken. Peace and love to you Jane, Michael, and the Laut family and friends.
Scott Wells
Karen Payton
September 16, 2009
I am so shocked and saddened to hear of Dave's passing. He takes with him alot of Love,and leaves behind a legacy.
May God's comfort be with you all.
Karen Payton
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September 15, 2009
Donny and Dorothy,
We will cherish the Memory of Dave, as we have of "Big Jim". We and our sons hold reverence in our hearts for the kindness and instruction shown us during those formative coaching years.
We speak of the Lauts' often at our family gatherings.
Sending only good thoughts,
Jim and Mary Sanders
Ojai
Joanne Kincaid
September 14, 2009
Jane and Michael,
I waited until I found the right words to express our shock and sadness at the loss of Dave. He was the best person to work with. Always a smile and a friendly remark. He will be missed. You offered us a hand when Michelle was in Iraq, and we want to extend the same to you. If we can do anything, let us know. We are all so sorry.
Lots of Love and Prayers,
Joanne and Michael Kincaid & family
Sister Patrice McGee
September 11, 2009
Dearest Jane, Michael, Mrs. Laut and Don,
My love and sympathy and prayers are with you as you grieve for your dear Dave. I was a co-worker with Dave at Santa Clara High School. Dave cared so much for his students and wanted only the best for them. I will always remember his kindness towards all. May Dave rest in peace. May your hearts be comforted by the many people who loved and respected him. Love and prayers, Sister Patrice
September 11, 2009
To the Laut Family,
We want to express our deepest sympathy on the recent loss of Mr. Laut. He was a great teacher and great coach to both James and myself when we attended Santa Clara High School and he will be missed by both of us. We will both always remember Mr. Laut's encouragement and cheers for us during our track meets and for James during football as well. Although Mr. Laut will be dearly missed by many, we know he will live on in the hearts and minds of all the students whose lives he made better. The entire family will be in our prayers.
Sincerely,
James and Sarah Rydberg
Santa Clara High School
Class of 1994
Joaquin Castanon
September 10, 2009
To the Laut Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this very difficult time.
I just want to say that i miss Coach Laut so much. He was a very important person in my life. I had Coach Laut for 7th period weight training last, semester.Now my last year in Hueneme High i promise you Coach Laut that we are going to win a championship for you. We miss you and always in our hearts.
Joaquin Castanon
Stacey & Michelle (Price) Cvijanovich
September 9, 2009
To the Laut Family,
Our deepest symphathy to you at this very difficult time. You are all in our hearts and prayers.
Donny - Stacey and I are so very sorry and you are in our thoughts.
May God give you strength during this difficult time.
Darla Batey Garcia
September 9, 2009
Don, Please accept our deepest sympathies to you, your mother, and your family. We had some great times growing up on "F" street. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
The Batey Family
Jane (Donlon) Waters
September 8, 2009
Dear Jane and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this very difficult time.
Patrick McGee
September 8, 2009
Dear Jane,
When I read of Dave's death on line, my mind could not comprehend it. I remember both Dave and you from SCHS years ago during my first years of teaching there. Life deals each of us trials and challenges that often seem impossible to survive; with the support and prayers of family and friends, we all find the strength we need. You are in the thoughts and prayers of my own family as you grow stronger through his untimely passing.
(Brother) Patrick McGee
Lorena Jimenez
September 8, 2009
Mrs Laut....
Coach Laut was my teacher about 6 yrs ago at HHS. I loved going into his class everyday and learning from him. he was an amazing instructor and i learned alot from him. He awlays made us laugh in class and he will be missed by all who got to know him. He will forever be remembered and never forgotten. may he Rest in Peace.
Erica Henry
September 8, 2009
If you grew up in Oxnard, you were proud of Dave Laut! Hearing his hometown mentioned during the 1984 Olympics was exciting for our whole family! My father was coached by Mr. Laut at Hueneme (C/O '63), and I remember Don from Art Haycox School. This tragedy has truly saddened not only our family, but the entire community. We truly have lost a great HOME TOWN LEGEND!! May God Bless & protect you during this tragic time...
steve henry
September 8, 2009
Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Priscilla Alamillo
September 8, 2009
My condolences go out to the Laut family, Dave was a beautiful person with a great sense of humor. I will miss him every morning walking into the front office of HHS with his beautiful smile and always joking with me. Rest in peace Dave
Courtney Abbott
September 8, 2009
Dear Jane,
I sincerely feel for you at this sorrow time of loss in your life. You are a very kind and special person. Dave will always be remembered as your companion and I truly feel for you during this difficult time and always. You and Michael are very special to the entire SCES family and if you ever need anything, please know we are here for you. You are in my daily prayers and I pray God will comfort your family during this very difficult time. I send a big hug of comfort to you both and pray that you are surrounded by love, kindness and sympathy during this difficult time and always.
Forever in our hearts and prayers at SCES,
Courtney, Jeremy and Marissa Corpus
Andy Akers
September 8, 2009
From the Akers family, our deepest sympathies and condolences to Jane and Michael; it is a great tragedy and loss,not only for the family, but the entire community as well.
Stuart Huggins
September 8, 2009
Dear Laut Family,
You all have our deepest sympathies and our heartfelt prayers during this impossibly difficult time. I have some wonderful memories of your family during my high school days at Hueneme. I will carry those memories with me all the days of my life. Dave will not be forgotten.
The Huggins Family
September 7, 2009
Dear Jane and Michael, You are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Everest (Marian Powell) Family
James Vasquez Jr.
September 7, 2009
My deepest sympathies to the Laut family. You were my neighbors on F Street for years. Good people and a great family. My prayers are with you.
Linda St. Pierre (Pasa)
September 7, 2009
Jane, Michael and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.
September 7, 2009
Dear Jane & family,
My brother Bob Roggy and Dave were great friends back in the 80's. Bob always spoke so highly of you and Dave. We were just viewing old movies of all of you with the dogs Kelsey and Rogue at the beach and also the video "The road to Moscow." We are so saddened to hear this news.He was such a wonderful, kind man that will be missed by all. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Barbara Roggy Sheppard, Oceanport, NJ,
Marianne Roggy Largey, Atlantic Highlands
Thom Roggy, Highland Village, Texas
Vince Penza
September 7, 2009
Our sympathies to to his family. In our years at SCHS and later on, both Jane and Dave were friendly and very nice people. I played ball with Dave in high school and though he could never remember which hole to run through in football he could always be counted on in tough situations. He will be missed by the many that new him. God bless.
Cathy Cestaro
September 7, 2009
Jane & family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. I worked with Dave at SCHS for many years. His classroom/lab was right next door to my office. Always a pleasure to be around and such a humble person. He will be greatly missed in the Oxnard/Hueneme community. Truly a gentleman and kind human being. My prayers are with you.
September 7, 2009
Jane, you and Michael are in my prayers -- may God Bless you both during this difficult time
Diane Thurman-George
Class of '75
kellie swift
September 6, 2009
Deepest sympathies to the Laut family.
Donny, I'm so sorry. Warmest regards.
kellie (oka) swift
Karen Owens
September 6, 2009
Jane and Family,
May God bless you and watch over you in the coming days. No doubt Dave will be looking on from heaven.
Karen
sid mcclure
September 6, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Laut family
Raymond Gallardo
September 6, 2009
My deepest sympathy to the Laut Family. May God Bless Dave and his family
Mike & Dana Van Scoy
September 6, 2009
We were heartbroken when we read of Dave's death. He was such an inspiration to aspiring throwers. He encouraged our son, Patrick, when he was throwing at Rio Mesa High School. Anything Dave said to try, Patrick took to heart. The highlight for Patrick was being invited to work-out in Dave's garage. Dave was one of the truly nice guys who never felt he was too good or too busy to talk to a kid who was trying to learn the art of shot putting. Thanks, Dave, for all the time you spent helping those who also thought "putting the shot" was a cool event. Our thoughts and prayers,
Cathy (Leuck) Armistead
September 6, 2009
Jane, I am very sorry to hear the loss of your beloved Dave, husband, father, son and brother. May Dave be forever in all you hearts. May you find comfort, keep faith with God, through this difficult time.
May prayers are will you all.
Keith & Delilah Rakestraw
September 6, 2009
To the Lauts & Laubachers,
We are so sorry for your loss; Mr. Laut (as I still called him even after graduating 13 yrs ago from SCHS) was an honorable man. He had this great, brilliant smile that just made you smile back, and actually lifted your spirits in the process. He was an extremely humble & respectable kind of man.
He made you feel special, because even after all those years he still remembered your name.
God bless his soul, console his family during this rough time, and help them remember that he is now in a safe place, and although they are hurting deeply because of their earthly loss, Mr. Laut will never be taken away from them ever again in Heaven. Once you get to Heaven, Mr. Laut will be there with his gigantic smile, and you will enjoy eternity in God?s presence.
God Bless you all.
Respectfully
john eubanks
September 6, 2009
my son,jewels eubanks ran track when dave was coach at santa clara. he and his dad were an inspiration to both myself and my son. it was an environment that sports should be,fun,where tahe kids improved and did there very best. we are proud to have been influenced by the real role models of dave and his father. john and jewels eubanks
Michelle Beltran
September 6, 2009
To the Laut and Laubacher family our deepest sympathy. We were very honored to have known Dave. He will be in our hearts forever. As both a teacher and coach, neighbor and family man, he has indeed left this earth a better place. We are sorry he left too soon. God bless you. Albert and Michelle Beltran
Rene Fleischbein
September 6, 2009
Dear Laut Family,
I was a student of Dave and Don's father at Hueneme High. Mr Laut was so very proud of his sons and his love for them and his wife was obvious from the comments he sometimes made about his family during class.
Though I did not know Dave, I, along with so many in the community, feel your pain and sorrow. What has been written about Dave makes obvious that he was loved, respected, and admired. He is, tragically, gone too soon.
With deepest condolences and sympathy,
Debbie
September 5, 2009
I would like to send my thoughts and prayers to the laut Family, 12 yrs ago I used to deliver mail to the laut Family, including Dotty, very very nice people, I was very sad to hear about Dave. God be with you on this trying time.
Richard Romine
September 5, 2009
My deepest smypathy and all my prayers are with the family. Following the career of Dave has been awesome experience. He was a true role model and so down to earth. Our last phone conversation in August was a gem. Then two weeks later, I was the one who had to confirm the horrible news. God bless the Lauts and everyone Dave's heart touched. The vigil and memorial service brought the community together. Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord. Everlasting God!
melody mackay
September 5, 2009
Dearest Laut Family: I attended Daves mermorial today. Going into it I knew of his accomplishments on the field, but didnt have the priviledge to know him as well off the field. I was truely humbled at how many lives Dave toouched. As amazing as he was on the field HE TRUMPED THAT A MILLION PERCENT AS A HUMAN BEING!! All of my familys love and blessings in this time of greif. The MacKays (Melody&Merrika)
Roxanne Orozco "K.O." Gallegos
September 5, 2009
Jane and Michael,
I have known Coach Laut since I was 4 years old, I am 22 now. Mr. and Mrs. Laut lived next door to my house on "F" street. When He moved I then attended Hueneme High where Coach Laut coached me in throwing events as well as Coach Hayes and Grenfell in my running events. He was a great man, and I am honored to have met him and have him apart of my life. I Did the heptathlon For ventura college and my throwing events were Discus, Javelin and Shot, I used my skills he taught me, and placed well at the championships, I will use these skills when I transfer to a university in the spring for Heptathlon and I will think of him. You both are in my prayers and will always be in my heart
Jill Holder Emily Bowling
September 5, 2009
Dear Jane, I have been devastated by the news. You and Dave were good friends to me when I lived in CA. Dave always made me laugh and he loved my banana pudding. We will miss him so.
Juan & Teresa Reynoso
September 5, 2009
Our condolences to the family. A special prayer for Michael & Jane.
Bill Cobey
September 5, 2009
I first met Dave when I was in seventh grade at Assumption school in Ventura and Dave was at Santa Clara grade school.We played football and basketball against one another thru high school Dave at Santa Clara and me at St. Bonnie, and then at Moorpark JC and Ventura JC. Since then i would run in to Dave from time to time and talk about the old days at Catholic school. I would walk away thinking what a great guy he was and how humble he was about all his athletic achievments. My thoughts and prayers to Daves family,he was one of a kind.
JOE AND ESTHER TAITAI
September 5, 2009
TO JANE AND FAMILY
OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU DURING THIS TIME OF GRIEF
Susie Bottorff
September 5, 2009
Jane and Family,
How sad I was to hear of the loss of your husband. He was a hometown hero but more importantly your husband, friend, father and son. My heart goes out to you.
Rich & Marge Willis
September 5, 2009
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
C M Nelson
September 5, 2009
I know that you are in the arms of your God. I will pray for your family, friend and Students. You will always ber remebered for your great Caring for others. Rest in Peace.
Becky Contreras
September 5, 2009
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009
Mike Muro & Family
September 5, 2009
We send our deepest condolences to The Laut Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you may God Bless you now and always. I have plesant memories of coaching Dave with the Boys Club tackle football team and also at Santa Clara High School. He stood out to me as an outstanding young man with such athletic abilities and just an awesome person.
Brian Mixon
September 5, 2009
Im sorry to hear of Dave's passing.
From the the old neighborhood paperboy
(The Press Courier)
September 5, 2009
Services will be today (9-5-09), Hueneme High School Gym @ 2:00pm. Public invited to attend
Edward M Castillo
September 5, 2009
You will be missed and we will never forget you. Our hearts and suppoort are with Jane, Dotty, Michael, and the entire Family during this difficult time. Friends forever. Edward, Vanessa, amd Melissa Castillo
Janice Roodsari
September 5, 2009
To all of Mr. Laut's friends and family:
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Mr. Laut was my Anatomy/Physiology teacher at Santa Clara as well as volleyball coach with Mrs. Laut. Mr. Laut's class was the start to many health/science classes throughout college on my journey to become an RN. I am thankful for the many hours of encouragement from both Mr. & Mrs. Laut throughout my years at Santa Clara.
I hope that you will find comfort in each other and in your memories of Mr. Laut.
My condolences,
Janice (Messecar) Roodsari
Santa Clara c.o. 1996
john flynn
September 5, 2009
There are many reasons for Santa Clara High School being a great school and Dave Laut was one of them. My prayers are with his wife, Jane and family.
John Flynn
Janette DeLorme-Parrish
September 5, 2009
From E.O. Green (had to walk right by his families house with the garage door open and someone lifting weights and grunting) to Santa Clara High School, only one year behind me. I have such pleasant memories. He was never without a smile and when spoken to, responded like a stand up guy. It has been many a years since I saw him and I am grateful for the Dave I remember. Rest in peace and may the Lord hold Jane and his family close to His heart.
Patty Duke
September 5, 2009
Jane & Michael,
We just want to let you know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
The Duke Family,
Brian,Patty,Kaitlyn & Randall
Barbara and Tom Gibbons
September 5, 2009
Our Condolences to the Laut family. I have known Dave since he was 6 years old and I loved him almost as much as my own boys. His father was one of my best friends and we coached Dave and my son Mike from age 7 until they entered high school. We are so sad to lose such a wonderful man. He was his parents’ pride and joy and rightly so. Jane and Dottie, we are so sorry.
Tom and Barbara Gibbons
Maria Bokron-Nowlin
September 4, 2009
Dear Jane, Michael, Don, and Dotty,
On behalf of the Bokron's , Peter and Melissa, my husband, Paul, and myself our prayers are with your family. We have such fond memories of Dave at my brother, Jon's b-day celebrations at the family home on Christmas Eve. Dave, Jon, Gordon, Skip, and Jane fun times! May you find peace with our Lord and know He will give all of us strength during these most difficult times ahead.
God Bless to all of you,
Maria (Bokron) Nowlin
Lynda Jimenez
September 4, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
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