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David Stech Obituary
David Stech, of Fairbanks, Alaska, - a loving husband, brother and friend - passed away on July 30, 2024, at the age of 79. He grew up in Armonk, New York, then earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Music from the University of Minnesota Duluth, his Master of Arts in Music from The Ohio State University, and his Ph.D. in Music from Michigan State University.
He served as a faculty member in the Department of Music at the University of Alaska Fairbanks from 1972 until his retirement in 2008, including time as department chair. David was a pioneer in the computer-assisted instruction and analysis of music. A classical organist himself, he directed the installation of the organ in UAF's Davis Concert Hall, the largest pipe organ in the State of Alaska. He continued his scholarly activities in his retirement, publishing several volumes of his reconstructions of improvisations by the French organist Marcel Dupré.
David is preceded in death by his father, David Henry Stech; mother, Virginia Rose West Stech; as well as his beloved wife, Mary. He is survived by his brothers, Harlan West Stech (Anita) of Duluth, Minnesota and Charles Rittenhouse Stech (Pamela) of Lewes, Delaware; along with numerous nieces and nephews.
A Funeral Service will be held at 2 p.m., with visitation at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024, at the First United Methodist Church, 915 Second Avenue, Fairbanks, AK 99701. Memorials can be made to the Department of Music at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, with designation to the memory of David and Mary Stech.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Stech
5 Entries
Debbie Wallace
September 7, 2024
Dave Stech was a central fixture to the Music Department at UAF, I transferred there in the fall of 1974, and he was my assigned mentor. Because I had already taken the required semesters of theory, I didn't take his famous classes. Some students were envious of this, but I believe I really missed out.
He was always available, to chat, discuss, or debate anything. He was wise, and always fair, and above all, truthful. I knew Mary briefly but less well. It's a joy knowing they found one another and were very happy together.
One special memory: he invited me to stand beside him as he "conducted" the heavy artillery from Ft. Wainwright during the 1812 Overture for the July 4th celebration.
Debbie Wallace, former studentMiddleton Idaho
Scott and Clara Deal
September 7, 2024
Dave´s passing is a big loss for the Fairbanks music community, for all who knew him. Dave was a great friend and mentor for me when I was a new, assistant professor at UAF. I always knew he had my back and his office door was always open to chat. Dave was respected and well-liked by everyone on the music department faculty where he provided a profound level of scholarly leadership. Dave and his wonderful wife, Mary, were great companions and lots of fun. Clara and I miss them both and we send our sincere condolences to both families at this time.
Loa Carroll-Hubbard
September 1, 2024
Dr. Stech taught music theory every summer that I attended the Summer Music Camp back in the late 70's and early 80's. I learned so much from him that helped me throughout my life in music. I am grateful for his patience and kindness, and for how much he enriched my life through music.
Linda Harriger
September 1, 2024
Dr. Stech was a kind, caring man with his own distinctive style. His devotion to Mary was obvious. My life was richer for having known him. RIP, Dave.
Murphy McCaleb
September 1, 2024
Dr Stech was a key figure of my time studying music at UAF. His passion about digging into the inner details of theory was always evident. Whilst analysis and ear training were certainly challenging subjects, I remember him taking care to support people through them. I also remember his dry sense of humour and willingness to share the most clever things he enjoyed about composition. I´m glad he was there.
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