David Rothgeb

GO BIG OR GO HOME! David Rothgeb was never one to do anything half-assed. He had a big personality and an even bigger heart. Generous to a fault, he made friends wherever he went and wanted to help those he cared about (which was most).

The youngest child of Arthur and Henrietta Rothgeb, David was born on February 9th, 1948, and raised in the wheat fields of Northern Oklahoma. He drove combines and sports cars, and the latter was a passion that was never extinguished. His cherished siblings were Rita Foster, Leroy Rothgeb, Helen Reeves, and Dorie Behar.

David loved and was loved deeply by his family. In 1971, at only 23 years old, he married Barbara Hanson, the love of his life for over 53 years. Barbara was a widow, so he became an instant father to her daughters, Kirsten and Corbyn. The welcome birth of Randall rounded out the family. He included their eventual spouses: Erik Press, Mimi Atkinson, Nada Kostolova, Larry Hightower, and Ian Wittig. Peak pride was achieved with the arrival of his seven grandchildren: Rainer, Olivia, Maxine, Ezekiel, Sebastian, Molly, and Sam.

David's career took him through the ranks of the food business and many moves across the country. He eventually landed in New York City as the publisher of Supermarket News. He marveled at how different this world was from Ponca City, Oklahoma.

David was known everywhere he lived for the de facto bike shops he set up in his garage and the rides he led exploring every region and neighborhood. His role as president of the Dallas Bike Club brought many of his treasured friends. Even in his last days, he still clocked many miles on his bicycle. He was a natural leader and loved to share his joy in driving and riding fast.

David made a point about connecting with people. He cultivated lifelong friends who made trip after trip to see him, especially during the last two years as he battled leukemia in Palm Springs and at the City of Hope Hospital. This support was a testament to how he showed up for everyone in his life.

There were countless adventures in David's life, and some of his favorites were traveling to Egypt and Africa, attending an industry party at Versailles in France, visiting Vienna, Prague, Rome, and Buenos Aires, sailing to Guatemala, and cycling some of the most beautiful roads in America. He was still planning trips, and the next was to visit a granddaughter studying in Scotland. His sense of adventure was strong and never waned for a moment.

David didn't stop, EVER. Although cancer eventually outpaced him, he did not surrender the race. He was going big until he was called home. This home for him is rooted in the Catholic faith, which he held close throughout his life. If you want to embrace his spirit, it's easy to do so. Turn a stranger into a friend, offer a helping hand, show up for people, and get in action-move swiftly on a hike, a bike, or a sports car. Play your music loudly and feel the wind in your hair. Go big or go home.

A memorial fund has been established in his memory at the City of Hope through the Fireflies West Cycling Club: https://ourhope.cityofhope.org/davidrothgeb