David Wicker Freed

1948 - 2022

David Wicker Freed, 74, of Salt Lake City, Utah passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2022. Family was paramount to the loving husband, father, son, brother and soon-to-be grandfather. Dave was married to Luella for 47 years and they traveled the world with fabulous friends. A businessman, mentor, and loyal friend, Dave was strong, determined, fair, and understanding. He was a passionate art collector, world traveler, avid cyclist, connoisseur of food and wine, and was always willing to share his recommendations. His favorite retreats were in Kauai, where he spent precious time with his family, and at the cabin up Weber Canyon. Dave spent his formative years as a cowboy working on the family property, expanding his passion for animals and the outdoors.

While at the University of Utah, Dave, being one semester shy from receiving his MBA, got a call from his Uncle Bob requesting help with the family business, Lagoon Amusement Park. Family was always a priority, so Dave answered that call and began his lifelong career at Lagoon. As an officer and director of America's largest family-owned amusement park, Dave participated in and was well respected by organizations such as the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions and the American Society for Testing and Materials. In 1988, he was awarded the Meritorious Service Award given in recognition of the most outstanding service to the amusement and attraction industry by an individual. His contributions to Lagoon and its guests have not gone unnoticed. To Dave, the employees at Lagoon were family. His loyalty was reciprocated by the many long-time employees who have spent their entire careers at Lagoon; a family amusement park that truly feels like family.

Dave's absence in the lives of those who knew him leaves a deep void. However, as he would expect, the path forward will be one step at a time in his honor. Dave, you are loved and you will be greatly missed.

Dave is survived by his wife, Luella, daughters Kirsten and Julie, brothers Howard and Michael, sisters Anne, Kristen and Jennifer, and grandson David Leo Freed. Preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Cristie Freed.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to ALS Research foundations.

Private family services will be held.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Salt Lake Tribune from Dec. 28, 2022 to Jan. 4, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for David Freed

Sponsored by Larkin Mortuary - Salt Lake City.

31 Entries

John & Ilauna Gurr

January 8, 2023

Dave and Lou were part of our mountain biking group that back in the day would travel to wherever there were good singletracks including Moab (frequently), Belize and other interesting places. He was always in good spirits and shape along with his good sense of humor. In Moab prior to the development of "nice" hotels, he commented on the current place where we were staying (small with thin walls), "geez, I sit down on the toilet and my knees hit the wall".

Always the optimist, last month when talking to our friend Craig
Thomas about attending our annual "guys luncheon" the first of December, he told him that he "couldn´t make it this year, but don´t take me off the list".

A great guy, great family ... he will be missed.

Bonnie Smith Baldwin

January 6, 2023

My family history had been forever intertwined with Lagoon. I worked several years at Lagoon starting way back in 1975, working for David Freed ("Davy" back in the old days) in rides with the carousel and train and signing up for animal care. Dave was always walking the park. Watch for his thumbs up or thumbs down. I met my husband at Lagoon. As well as my father-in-law working his entire life there. And so many family members working there. Dave knew all of them. When I think of Lagoon of my bygone days Dave is there, always. There is posted a photo of Dave smiling holding one of the cougars, that´s the guy I remember. One can not think of Lagoon without thinking of Dave. I hope the Freed family´s hearts are eased knowing how he is in so many memories of so many people.

Joseph Cook & Family

January 5, 2023

Fond memories of swimming at Aloha, ventures in the sand pits, tennis at grandpa Dave's and talking about girls. What a wonderful character and friend to share youth with. His is missed. Love to Lou and family.

Madelyne Emerson

January 5, 2023

Freed family, I am so very sorry for your loss!! Dave was my first boss, and out of my 40 plus years of employment in various careers throughout my life I found myself wishing I could work for someone who was just half as professional, caring fair and kind as David W. Freed was!. Lagoon was my first job as a 15 year old kid, I was painfully shy, insecure and most definitely did not have a high opinion of myself, especially after the bullying I endured throughout school. I learned many, many lessons from Dave as a boss and as a friend, from how to be a good leader, to the the importance of integrity, but most of all he gave me the confidence knowing that I was valued and that I could do anything I set out to do. I would not be who I am today if I hadn't chosen to work at lagoon amusement park and had Dave Freed as my mentor and friend. Dave has touched so many lives!!! He will truly be missed!!

ZIERER Amusement Rides Germany

January 5, 2023

We are really sorry to hear of Dave's passing. Working with him on a number of ZIERER attractions for Lagoon Park was always a pleasure for us. He was such a reliable partner with an outstanding integrity and professionality. Thanx for everything he did with us. Rest in peace - our thoughts are with the family and all Lagoon members. He will be sadly missed - not only in the family but also in the industry.

Liz Luttmer Sheets

January 4, 2023

I'm so sorry for the loss of your brother, Kristen my heart is with you and I love you!!
Liz Luttmer

Paul Lyon

January 3, 2023

Lou,
I was in forum with Dave in the late 90´s. Our group did a bike ride from Santa Fe to Taos...I was the new guy, and Dave knew I was going thru some hard stuff and everyday managed to hang back with me and give me phenomenal mentoring and empathy. More than 10 years younger, I had a heckuva time keeping up with Dave and his tree trunk bike legs!
My favorite memories were every time Lagoon had a new ride, he would open the park early in the morning for our forum to test our manliness. He, always in a suit and tie...and a twinkle in his eye, and a smirk, sensing our panic navigating the rides like the tough men we tried to be, while hiding our fear!
I am so sorry for your loss... ALS is so brutal... I love you, Dave, and so grateful to have known you.
Peace to you Lou...xo
Paul Lyon

Stuart P. Young

January 2, 2023

So sad to lose Dave. To Kris & Lou along with the rest of the family, he will be missed in so many ways.
Kris & Dave were my favorite people to buy Christmas presents for. A unique Vodka was always a challenge!
My prayers are with you this year and beyond.
Stu Young

Lorin Moench, Jr.

January 1, 2023

Dear Lu,
What a shock it was to hear of David's passing. I had no idea of David's medical challenges. I talked to him along the road that goes through our ranch on the way to your cabin at least once a month during the summer. I have had the pleasure of knowing him from the time he was a teenager at the Weber to when he became President of Lagoon. He was as kind and gentle as any person I have ever known. The world has lost a great soul. Mary Ann and I will miss him. We hope you know you can count on us for any help you might need.

Steve Price

December 31, 2022

I first met Dave in the early 90's through youth soccer (Julie) and YPO. Dave invited me into his YPO Forum and he changed my life, as did YPO.
He was a magnificent example of the best in humanity, family, friendship and all of his endeavors.

Jake Fairclough

December 31, 2022

Dave was a true stud. I had the honor of knowing him my entire life. He was as a member of the 6 "fun hogs" and he helped instill, in me, his passion for travel. He always hooked me up for my birthday parties in the 80s with passes to Lagoon. Much love to all of the Freed family. Jake Fairclough

Ray Cannefax

December 30, 2022

David was such a generous, loving and enthusiastic man. He will be missed enormously by so very many. David was lived! Ray Cannefax.

Thomas Gorey

December 30, 2022

I have nothing but warm and respectful memories of Dave ("Davey," in days gone by), both at his home right above the Goreys on the avenues and up Weber at the Freed Family cabin. It was up Weber as a youth that Dave conferred upon me the title of "Clev," short for "Clever Tom," which he used even after I'd grown up. No one on earth can fill that void, that's for sure. Dave was always one of the coolest kids and was looked up to by everyone. I am so sorry he has left us, and I offer my condolences to the entire Freed Family.

Ann M George

December 30, 2022

Dear Lu, Kirsten, and Julie,
I am saddened to hear of the loss of your husband and father. I am sure it is
a comfort to know what a good life you shared with him.
I wish you all the love of each other and your many friends to help you heal. Yours, Ann George

Eva Williams Rasmussen

December 30, 2022

I worked with Lue in a law office in Downtown Salt Lake City back in the middle 1970's. She, another gal we hired, Lynda, and I were all born the same year. We had fun days then have been together only twice since then--once when Lue had Lynda and me for lunch at her and Dave's beautiful new home. My heart goes out to you, dear Lue, and your sweet daughters. I think of you and Lynda so often. Love and blessings to you and your family.

Eva Conrad Rasmussen

Rolayne P. Fairclough

December 30, 2022

I attended Bryant Junior High and East High with Dave. He was a lovely, kind young man. I especially remember the ski bus trips he organized for the Bryant group. What fun. He had a genuine sense about himself and was a delight.

Margaret Bennion Sykes

December 30, 2022

Luella, I am so saddened by the passing of your husband, Dave, and by your loss. I know ALS is a very difficult journey to endure. I have seen the suffering not only for the one who has ALS, but also for all those who love and surround the one. I know you are strong and resilient, but I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. I am beyond grief stricken for you and your girls. Love you.

Craig Brewster

December 30, 2022

I was never a close friend of Dave´s. I knew him in high school. I remember him though as always a kind and friendly person.

Stephanie Crossley

December 30, 2022

Dave is going to be missed by all that met him. My heart hurts for his family. Julie, he is holding your baby before you meet him. I'm truly sorry for this loss. He was a pillar of the community and loved his Lagoon family as well. What a tremendous loss. So very sorry.

Amy Howells White

December 30, 2022

Dear Lou and girls,
Many warm thoughts going your way. Davy was a big part of my youth at the cabin. We had some pretty memorable summers on horses. Because of his teasing/daring me-- I jumped horses over logs (way too big), swam on horses in Henrietta (way too crazy), and shared fun times in the little cabin with Dave, Jim and Chris. One summer they built a very long sturdy fence for months. When we went to see the finished project, alas! The night before busy beavers had chewed much of it up. Dave swore a bit with his imp smile and we all had a a semi tragic laugh. He was a good cowboy.

I noticed as a teen Dave was loyal and responsive to his parents and siblings. As a 50 year old he liked to brag about his beautifully talented daughters and wife.

Dave was always an adventure! He left behind Good in many lives and I loved him. You did a great job making this guy shine, Lou! May peace, love, and good memories be with you all in this loss.
Amy Howells White

Brendan Ellsworth

December 29, 2022

Dave, I never knew you personally, but working at Lagoon has been one of my favorite experiences, with a super understanding and supportive employee culture. I am deeply thankful for his efforts in cultivating this incredible employee family, and I know that Lagoon won't ever be quite the same without him. Thank you, David Freed. You will be sincerely missed.

Sharen Smith

December 29, 2022

Lou I am so sorry to hear about your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Craig Johnson

December 29, 2022

I am sorry to hear of Dave's passing. I have several memories of him over the years. But, the one we have talked and laughed about for years. About 25 plus years ago I called Dave and told him I was going to New York with some friends. I told him where we were staying and to what theater. I ask him if he had any recommendations for dinner. He said let me think about it. Well a couple days later he called me and gave me the name of what he said was a great Italian restaurant. So, we go to New York and the two couples go to this restaurant prior to the theater. Nice small intimate setting and fabulous food. Keep in mind this is 25 years ago. The bill comes and for four of use it is $600.00. I get home and see Dave and he asks how was the restaurant and I told great but pretty expensive. He then tells me Oh I have never been there I just heard it was good. To this day the priciest meal we have ever had. Rest in Peace Dave my thoughts are with the family.

Meg Averett

December 29, 2022

I had the privilege of growing up with Dave. We attended Bryant and East together. We were Avenues kids and all hung out with each other. He was close friends with my best friend Nanette and we stayed connected over the years. He was a true gentleman and friend. All my love to you Lue and your children.

Wayne B. Wright

December 29, 2022

It was a joy to have Dave as a classmate at both Bryant Jr. High and East High School. I also had the privilege of serving with him in the 96th Army Reserve at Fort Douglas after I returned home from Vietnam and getting to play golf with him during our two weeks active duty, his idea on how to stay active for two weeks. So grateful for the times we had together.

Larry Hays

December 29, 2022

The news of Dave´s death was a shock! I was fortunate to have worked with Dave on a number of attractions at Lagoon. I recall one trip to Munich, Germany with Dave and his sister. This was the beginning of our business and personal relationship over the next 30 years. Dave operated with integrity and fairness in everything He did. He had great respect for the Freed legacy and their business, Lagoon. It would be difficult to find a single person from the " baby boomer" generation that doesn´t have a personal story about Lagoon growing up. Even though, I haven´t seen Dave in several years I have wonderful memories of working with this true professional. The amusement park industry has lost a true leader and giant in our business. My deepest sympathy to Luella and Dave´s children. Your husband and father was a good guy. I will miss him. Larry Hays

The Clarks

December 29, 2022

Our love goes out to our neighbors and friends, the Freeds. What a huge hole David leaves -but what an enduring legacy he has built and challenges us to meet!

His touch made waves and ripples felt by everyone in Farmington, Davis County, Utah, and ultimately the world over.

It has been said that if you want to make everyone happy, don't be a leader, sell ice cream. David managed to do both, and much more, with aplomb.

Thank you David for making Lagoon a classy destination with an impeccable reputation we are proud to have in our back yards. Thank you for your appreciation for all things beautiful.

Chadwick Greenhalgh

December 29, 2022

David was a great man. He showed so much trust in me as a teenager at Lagoon 40 years ago. His mentorship and the leadership skills he taught me were truly foundational to the successes in my life. That photo of him with a cougar is precious. He gave me the opportunity to care for those animals and to love them like he did. His legacy and the legacy of the entire Freed family have blessed my life and will endure forever. Thank you, David.

Chad Morris

December 29, 2022

I have many great memories of Dave (too many to describe) as we grew up together on the Avenues. May his good nature live on in all his family.
Chad Morris

Destiny Lassalle

December 29, 2022

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

Catherine Rebekah Taylor

December 28, 2022

I have been an employee of Lagoon for 5 seasons. I appreciate David Freed and watched as he walked the park to run the business. My heart goes out to the family and I pray for healing from the grief which death brings. Thank you Lagoon Amusement Park. I appreciate being a part of the work family.

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