David Papadakos

David "Dave" Alan Papadakos passed away January 17, 2013 in Vernal, Utah. Dave was born July 29, 1969 to Michael and Catherine Papadakos in Spring Valley, IL. Dave was raised in Paris, IL. His greatest passion as a child was rocks, water and sticks. These three things defined Dave's life, and he never outgrew. During Junior High and High School Dave developed a love for music. He played the trumpet in the high school marching band, where he was able to travel to Washington and Hawaii for an inauguration and share his talent. He received his Eagle Scout award at the age of 17.

Dave received a Bachelors degree from the Southern Illinois University, and second Bachelors degree from Utah State University, and was currently working on his Masters degree in Education.


Dave was an avid outdoorsman. He was employed as a Park Ranger for Rocky Mountain & Dinosaur National Park. He later worked in Safety and Security for Deseret Power. During the summer months he was a Type 3 Incident Commander for wild land fires.

Dave enjoyed serving others; he was an Advanced EMT and an active scoutmaster for 18 years. He also enjoyed photography, canoeing, hiking, mountaineering, mountain biking, hunting and fishing. Dave was employed with the Uintah School District as the assistant Principal at the Vernal Middle School.

Dave's greatest accomplishment in life was fostering, adopting and raising his son Brad.

Dave is survived by his parents Michael and Catherine Papadakos (Paris, IL), brother Jason Alan Papadakos (Panama City Beach, FL) and his son Bradley Papadakos.

A Visitation was held Tuesday, January 22, 2013 from 6~8pm at the Ashley Valley Funeral Home (410 North 800 West, Vernal, Utah). There was a family service immediately following the visitation.

Online condolences may be shared at www.AshleyValleyFuneralHome.com