David James Scott

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David James Scott, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, coach, teacher, and friend. Dave passed on March 9, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born in Denver, CO, on April 6, 1957, to Robert and Julia Scott, Dave lived a life full of passion, dedication, and love.

Dave shared 46 wonderful years of marriage with his wife, Susan, the love of his life. Together, they built a beautiful life, including Cross Creek Ranch, which they purchased in the 1980s. With his own hands, Dave designed and built a stunning log home, installed a hydroelectric plant, ran cattle, and later helped create a disc golf course so that the community could share the land he loved so much. He and Susan were an unstoppable team, raising their two children, Blake and Mariah, with the same spirit of hard work and joy that defined their life together.

Blake and Mariah were raised in the halls of Eagle Valley High School, where Dave and Susan dedicated much of their time to education and athletics. From toddling around basketball practices to taking the court themselves, both children were shaped by their father’s unwavering support, wisdom, and encouragement. To them, Dave was not just a dad but also a coach, mentor, and strongest advocate. He was a Christian man who instilled in them the values of hard work, perseverance, and love for competition while always making time for family fun and adventure. Watching his children grow into successful leaders in their careers and communities brought him immense pride.

Dave was a hands-on and devoted grandfather to Natalie, Aspen, and Olivia, cherishing every moment spent with them. Whether teaching them about ranch life, cheering them on in sports, or simply sharing stories, he poured his love and wisdom into his granddaughters.

A dedicated educator, Dave arrived at Eagle Valley High School in 1980, where he served as a teacher, coach, and later administrator. Dave was a master craftsman, woodshop teacher, and an innovator in education. He taught CAD and robotics, introduced flight simulators into the high school to advocate for future pilots, and founded EVTV by creating the video productions class. He coached basketball, football, men's and women's golf, and girls' soccer but was a strong supporter of all athletics. Above all, he taught life. He believed wholeheartedly that "Education is the most important job in the world." His students and athletes remember him as a tough but caring mentor, ahead of his time in education and technology. He built a bio-building with a hydroponics and agriculture lab, giving students hands-on experiences that connected them with real-world applications. His innovative teaching helped students dream bigger, inspiring them to make a difference in their own communities.

As a coach, Dave was a transformational figure who guided young athletes through the journey of growth, resilience, and character development. His leadership extended far beyond the court, teaching life lessons that his players carry with them to this day. Many credit him with shaping their careers, families, and personal values. One of his proudest moments came in 1985 when he led his basketball team to an undefeated season and a State Championship—an achievement that brought the entire school and community together.

Dave’s life was extended in gratitude to Heidi McCollum, who selflessly donated a kidney, giving him precious additional years to create lasting memories with his family. He cherished this gift, making the most of his time at the ranch, in South Carolina, watching his granddaughters play sports, and walking Mariah down the aisle to marry Jeffrey Russell in North Carolina this past July.

Dave will be cremated, and a celebration of life will take place in the summer of 2025 at Cross Creek Ranch. Details will be shared at a later date.

He is survived by his loving wife, Susan Scott; son, Blake Scott; daughter, Mariah Russell (husband Jeffrey Russell); granddaughters, Natalie, Aspen, and Olivia; brother, Edward Scott; and nephews, Adam and Kyle Scott. His legacy of hard work, kindness, and unwavering love will live on in the lives of those he touched.

Dave loved nothing more than his friends and family gathering at the ranch around the porch for a BBQ, grilling steaks, and reminiscing. Dave will be deeply missed, but his spirit and wisdom will forever be a guiding force for his family, friends, students, and community.