David was born May 31, 1963, in St. Francis, Kansas, to Gary D. Hale and Kay (Roberts) Hale. He was awarded a baccalaureate degree in Sociology from the University of Kansas in 1991. David was employed by Strong Office Systems as a sales representative. Later, was an Independent Broker for Indoff Business Products.
One of David’s most admirable qualities was that he loved to help people! He found great satisfaction in his job at Maximus, previously known as General Dynamics. As a Call Representative, David answered questions from consumers about Medicare and the Affordable Care Act. He would often go above and beyond job expectations to assist callers.
David loved music and he liked to share that love with friends and family. He especially enjoyed the Grateful Dead, an American Rock Band. He took pride in seeing himself as a “hippy” and a Dead Head. He certainly looked and dressed the part. David eventually became a “taper” and followed the Grateful Dead off and on throughout the United States.
Nicki Daneke is the mother of David’s only child, Madeleine. Maddie was the most important person in David’s life. She will carry with her the memory of a father who cared deeply about her well-being.
Survivors include: parents, Gary and Kay Hale of Lawrence; daughter, Madeleine of Denver, CO; brother, Greg Hale and his wife Alex of Valley Glen, CA, and their two children, Grace and Mackenzie; two aunts, Val Bearley of Atwood, KS; and Elaine Hanson of San Antonio, TX; and six cousins, Finnegan Kelly of San Francisco, CA; Aris Roberts Kelly of Austin, TX; Joshua Hanson of Attalla, AL; René Hanson Malone of Austin, TX; Freeman Bearley of McPherson, KS; Nicholas Bearley of Atwood, KS; and long-time partner, Laura Pope of Lawrence.
Memorial contributions may be made to an education fund for David’s daughter, Madeleine. She is enrolled at the Aveda Institute in Denver, CO. Donations may be sent to Madeleine Hale, 3900 W. 13th St., Lawrence, KS 66049.
A Celebration of Life for David occurred at the Jazz Haus in downtown Lawrence on January 26th.

Gary and Kay, I am so sorry for your loss. I didn’t see David often, but when I did, he was always so nice and genuinely happy to see me. I’ll miss David. He was such a caring soul.
I am so sorry to hear of David’s passing. He was a very positive musical influence in my life and will always be remembered for this fondly! Sending love & hugs to Gary Kay. ?
Dear Gary, Kay and family,
I’m so sorry to hear about David. Thinking of all of you at this difficult time.
Gary and Kay,
I’m sorry to hear of the loss of your son. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through this difficult time.
I am so sorry to hear about your son. This is such sad news and so unexpected. May your warm memories of him bring you peace and comfort . My prayers are with you .
Dear Gary, Kay, Madeline, Greg and family, I’m so surprised to learn of David’s passing. That Yost family is something extra special. I’m glad we got to share that love together. Love always, cousin, Erin Puls Anderson
Gary, Kay, and Greg,. My sympathies, thoughts, and prayers.
I am so very sorry to hear this sad, sad news. My condolences to your family & friends who loved David.
Thinking of you Kay and Gary during this most difficult time. My heart is with you.
Gary and Kay, My thoughts and prayers are for you as you grieve the loss of David. My son, Mark and David taped many Grateful Dead concerts together. I feel like I know you through Michelle.
I am so sorry. Love to all friends and family.
Kay and Gary,
I am very sorry for your loss, my heart goes out to you both. May you find some peace during this difficult time.
Gary and Kay, we are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Kay and Gary, So sorry for your loss; praying for God’s comfort and peace for you and your family. Grateful we had an opportunity to connect and share last year.
Gary and Kay, I’m so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of the family during this sad time.
Adrianne Brynds
I worked with David at Strong’s and remember his love of music. He assembled his own spy hat to record music at concerts that was quite inventive. I’m so sorry for your loss.
My heart breaks for you Gary and Kay! Your fond memories will be a source of comfort at this difficult time!
Maddie, so very sorry to hear about the passing of your dad. Cherish all those wonderful memories and they will assist during your difficult days. Sending love, hugs, prayers and deepest sympathy to you and your family..?❤
Kay and Gary, we are so sad to know of David’s untimely death. You have been beyond loving parents to him and we respect your tender care throughout his life. You are in our hearts as you learn to live with this sad loss.