David Joseph Hebert

Durham, NH - Dr. David J. Hebert, PhD, 82, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2022. He was born in Edmundston, New Brunswick, Canada on October 27, 1939. He was the son of Adrien Peter Hebert and Martina Rose (McCluskey) Hebert.
Dave was a one-of-a-kind educator who influenced and enriched the professional and personal lives of hundreds of counselor educators and mental health professionals over a 46-year career at the University of New Hampshire in the Department of Education Graduate Counseling Program, eventually serving as the first Graduate Coordinator for the Department.
While his contributions to the Counseling Program, the Education Department, and the University of New Hampshire were all significant, it was his commitment to the craft of teaching, as evidenced by the hundreds of students who experienced his classroom. In 1996, he was recognized as a University of New Hampshire Jean Brierly Award for Teaching Excellence recipient; the University's highest award for teaching. In 2007, he was selected as a Kimball Faculty Fellow Award recipient. In typical fashion, his Kimball lecture focused on others as he addressed Remember the Heroes in Your Life.
The seriousness of his commitment to his teaching is best understood through his own words when he received the Jean Brierly Award. "Maybe teachers are born, but it helps to pay attention to the task. The good teachers you remember aren't necessarily the ones who made things easy. They made you work hard, they were fair, and they brought you to a point where you never thought you'd go." In Dr. Hebert's courses, students knew from his reputation and their own experience that he would call out their best effort.
His work also included a part-time private practice for over two decades. He published on a wide range of topics, contributing to his profession and revealing the breadth of his interest and intellect. In the same manner, his personal interests had great range and featured the same intensity as his professional life. He competed in numerous marathons, including five Boston Marathons, hiked throughout New England, summiting all the Presidential's, and all the 4000 footers except one (his choice). A personal favorite was his climb of Mount Rainier. He golfed with fervor, and took up sea kayaking despite personal trepidation about swimming. He was one of the most ardent Red Sox and Montreal Canadiens fans, rarely missing a televised game. Competitiveness and dedication were impressive in everything he undertook.
Even with the impressive and lengthy list of accomplishments and achievements, Dave Hebert's greatest passion and commitment was for his family. Dave and Bea were one of those couples who belonged together and had the benefit of growing up as next-door neighbors and lifelong companions. They celebrated their 60th anniversary on August 23rd of this year. He spoke lovingly and frequently about his 4 four daughters and 7 grandchildren. He was always proud of their each and every accomplishment, attended countless sporting events and always let those close to him know that he believed in them. "S'Adapter" was a frequently used word with family and close friends.
David Joseph Hebert lived a life of significance. He encouraged peace and challenge in those fortunate enough to know and learn from him.
Dave was predeceased by his brother Joseph Floyd Hebert. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Beatrice Hebert. Four daughters, Suzanne Hebert of Lubec Maine, Sheryl Hebert and her husband Mark Roy of Sebastian Florida, Sandra Hebert of Durham New Hampshire and Michele Hebert of Whitewood South Dakota. He is also survived by his grandchildren David, Landon, Megan, Jessica, Dylan, Allan, and Jacqueline, and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in his honor to the Appalachian Mountain Club, 10 City Square Boston MA 02129.
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