David P. Synhorst

Dr. David P. Synhorst

January 31,1944 - January 6, 2026

Dr. David P. Synhorst, 81, passed away at his home on January 6, 2026, in New Providence, New Jersey, after a hard-fought battle with Alzheimer's and advanced prostate cancer. He was born to Paul and Evelyn (Vail) Synhorst, a farmer and a homemaker, on January 31, 1944, in Oskaloosa, Iowa. He grew up in rural Iowa on a family farm and attended a one-room schoolhouse through his elementary school years.

Dr. Synhorst's academic journey began at Grinnell College, where he graduated with a degree in chemistry. His interest in medicine led him to the University of Iowa, College of Medicine, where he earned his Doctorate in Medicine. With an interest in children's health, he completed a pediatric residency at University Hospital, Iowa City, Iowa and Santa Rosa Hospital, San Antonio, Texas. His shared interest in pediatrics and cardiology culminated in further specialized training through a Pediatric Cardiology Fellowship Program at the University of Iowa, College of Medicine.

Over the years, David held various academic appointments, provided caring compassionate care to patients, participated in training pediatric residents, and actively engaged in research projects at several highly-regarded institutions including the University of Iowa, University Hospital, Iowa City, Iowa; University of Utah, Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City, Utah; and, Denver Children's Hospital, Denver, Colorado.

Following his passion for research, his career later transitioned to the pharmaceutical industry, where he served as a Group Director for 25 years at Bristol Myers Squibb working on cardiovascular drug development trials. His final project was his extensive work on the drug, Eliquis. Once it was headed to completion, he said, "That's enough," and retirement followed. His professional contributions were vast and left an indelible mark on the field of cardiology.

Beyond his professional achievements, David was an avid reader of both fiction and nonfiction, devoted sports spectator especially of the Denver Broncos, and Diane's companion for the carefree day trips of "poking around NJ" and searching for the perfect shore house. However, his greatest joy and delight was found in time spent with his son, Mike, and precious time playing with his grandsons, Derek and Cooper. We will always miss his subtle humor, sharp wit, and calm, laid-back presence.

David's legacy is lovingly carried on by his family, who remember his generous, kind, and gracious ways. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Diane; his son, Michael (Lauren); grandsons, Derek and Cooper; sister, Loretta Hudson; nieces Renee Huson, Coleen Fisher, Rachael Hagedorn, Meredith Dobson, Rachel Matt-Dove, Janelle Matt, and nephews Marshall Parks, Matthew Reinhardt; sisters-in-law Cheryl Reinhardt, Jenny Matt; and brother-in law David Matt. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Paul and Evelyn Synhorst, sister Marilyn Parks, brothers-in-law Jerry Hudson, Jim Parks, and Frank Reinhardt.

David's life was a testament to his intelligence, generosity, and kindness which touched the lives of countless people. We will cherish memories of a gracious humble man whose life was productive and filled with caring for others.

Memorial donations in honor of David can be directed to Atlantic Visiting Nurse, 465 South Street, Suite 100, Morristown, NJ, 07960, or by clicking here for Hospice or Camp Clover (summer bereavement camp for children); or Alzheimer's Association by clicking here, allocated to research.

A Celebration of Life is being planned for late February, 2026.