I’ve thought about Dave a lot since hearing about his passing. Just way too soon, for someone getting so much out of life. We were classmates at Kennedy, but I’d run into him over the years at a park or a Kernels or Roughriders game. He always had a story about his son to share, from the time I’d heard he had a baby. He so enjoyed his marriage and fatherhood.
I’m so sorry he’s gone too soon. But I’m glad to remember that he truly lived his life.
Elizabeth Laymon
January 12, 2023
I just heard tonight. I'm very sorry for your loss. I met, and worked with, Commissioner Dave Zahn when I worked for the Cedar Rapids Fire Department. We also golfed together, from time to time. He was a VERY good golfer! He was an outstanding Safety Commissioner for our City and our Fire Department. Of course, I interacted with him countless times when he was on duty. Thankfully, I'll see my friend Dave in my future... forever. A quality man that will be missed here on this Earth by all who knew him!! Praying for family and friends.
James Thatcher
December 24, 2022
My heart was broken when I saw the news of Dave's passing last week. My Lord, I was in shock! I was lucky enough to meet Dave while he was on duty at the 1st Avenue Hy-Vee. When I first met Dave, I told him that he reminded me of Gary Senise, the actor who played the part of Lt. Dan in "Forest Gump." I guess that he took that as a compliment, as we became friends and chatted many times after that. I will never forget that moment in time.
I finally got here to share my thoughts and deep condolences, and before writing this, I read all of the previous condolences. Everybody verified my feelings of how good of a person Dave was, and how much he loved people. I observed his kindness on many occasions. As Paula Gunter mentioned in her condolence message (Dec 22, 2022), "he never turned down time to chat!" Well said, Paula! Yes, he was just that way, exactly.
My prayers to Suzanne and Brogan, especially, who lost their dear husband and father, respectively. To all his coworkers at CRPD, I certainly can understand your grief, as you lost an officer that persistently set a great example of the way an officer can be an ambassador to the community.
Just know that I share your grief, but I know that he is in Heaven, and the Lord will help us through this time of sorrow. God Bless everyone who has shared their thoughts here, as it made me realize that everybody who knew Dave Zahn witnessed the way he loved and lived his life, which was way too short.
John Kubicek
December 23, 2022
Suzanne,
I was shocked to hear about Dave today, and send my deepest condolences to you and Brogan. We are in Florida, or I would have been there to offer my support. Prayers for peace for all of you. ?
Debra Pint
December 23, 2022
So sorry to hear of Dave's passing! We were next door neighbors on Oakland Rd many years ago. He was a great neighbor and friend. It always made me chuckle when he would tell us to watch over the house when he was going to be away - but we always did and he did the same for us when we would be gone. I enjoyed running into him after he moved away, he never turned down time to chat. Prayers for you, rest in peace Dave!
Paula Gunter
December 22, 2022
I've met thousands of people, literally. If I could've chosen an older brother Officer Dave Zahn would've been the one.
Mare
December 21, 2022
So very sorry to read about David’s passing. I was honored to have known you all for many years and ran into David occasionally out and about and always enjoyed chatting with him. He was just one of those truly nice people. Prayers for you and your family. I hope all the love and good wishes of your family and friends brings you much comfort in the days ahead.
Margie Jenkins
December 21, 2022
My sincere sympathy to the family of Dave Zahn. I knew Dave while I was an administrator at Prairie HS. Dave never hesitated in helping us.
Dan Bubon
December 20, 2022
Sorry for your loss. I enjoyed seeing Dave on his patrols. Thank you for sharing him with our City.
Mike Moran
December 20, 2022
Very sad to hear of David’s passing. Our sincere sympathy. We lived across the street from the Zahn family when David was a little boy. In the past couple years I have run into him and had conversations about all the years in between. Last spring spent a long time visiting at a tennis meet with he and his son. What a nice man. His positive energy will certainly be missed.
Linda Osmundson
December 20, 2022
I am one to be blunt and say what I feel and it's like this.... My run in with the crpd have not always been the greatest or most welcoming but one day when I was standard in the same club parking lot trying to figure out how to afford a new oil pan for the van I bought 3 months prior, none only other then David Zahn coming to my rescue... Thank you David for you kindness Rest Soundly and Peacefully.... ??
Justin Andrews
December 20, 2022
My heart breaks for your family. Dave was one of the best, he brought a smile to any situation. He spoke highly of Brogan and his sports. We shared videos of dog tricks. He's a huge loss in this community.
Phyllis Greenlee
December 19, 2022
So sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. Recently got to know him and enjoyed visiting with him. My condolences to his family.
Rich Pazdernik
December 19, 2022
Suzanne and Brogan,
We were shocked to learn that Dave had passed. We always enjoyed chatting with Dave when we walked through the neighborhood. He was always in good spirits. Peace to you both.
Aisur and Paul Stapleton
December 19, 2022
Suzanne and Brogan, we are so sorry and shocked to learn of Dave's passing. He was a great friend and companion. I cannot list the number of times that he has given me insight and advice. He was truly a great guy and so full of common sense. Rest in peace my friend!
Rick and Marsha Stickle
December 19, 2022
So very sorry for your loss of Dave. I've known Dave for many years from when I worked for Area Ambulance. Also got to know him through my late husband, Chuck Mincks. Dave was a great guy, always willing to spend time chatting, getting to know someone new. He will be missed.
Sue Mincks
December 19, 2022
I am so sorry to hear of his passing. I got to know him from working at the Five Seasons Center or now Alliant Powerhouse. Sending prayers to his family.
Lisa Hahn
December 19, 2022
Suzanne and family, while I was visiting Metro last Friday I was surprised and saddened by the news of your loss of David. Being surprised my this news is hard enough and the passage of time will help somewhat. Being such a dedicated person and teacher that you are, Suzanne, getting back to school will help. Getting back did to the Metro routine and the staff helped Bonnie and I when we lost our dear ones.
Terry K.
Suzanne's now Retired Metro Team Teacher
Terry Kemme
December 19, 2022
So sorry to hear of David's passing. When ever I saw him at the office or on the street he always had a good story to tell. Such a good guy he will be missed. Our sympathy, very sorry for your loss and the community's.
Anne Staton
December 19, 2022
Suzanne and family, Sorry for your loss. You have my deepest sympathy and condolences.
Steve Goodall
December 19, 2022
Thought and prayers to the Zahn family. I played baseball at Mt. Mercy with Z. He also lived on my floor my freshman year. Many good memories of Dave on and off the field. He was always willing to give you advice or share an experience. Rest in Peace my friend.
Kevin Moser
December 19, 2022
Its hard to put into words all of the things I would like to say. I'm so sorry for your loss... Dave was a trusted friend, a brother, someone I could always count on in tough times. I'll always remember the running around together as young kids at church, weight workouts, hitting baseballs, the ski trips, dime beer nights at Vets Stadium, riding with you and not allowing you to reply to dispatch, golf, softball games, riding motorcycles, hunting trips, text messages when the Packers would win or the Vikings would lose... so so many memories over the years. It was obvious over the years Dave's greatest joy was watching his son grow and have success... A father/husband/friend/brother gone too soon... Love ya man. My condolences go out to the entire family.
Scott Fruehling
December 19, 2022
I am so sorry for your loss. I mostly Iknrw him from when he was commissioner and had a great deal of respect for him. This is way too young for you to be parted from him as husband and father.
Peace.
Karen Torno
December 19, 2022
Dave was a wonderful friend in high school. I have never forgotten the small kindnesses he showed me, which included giving me a ride to JFK events on more than one occasion. He was warm and laughed easy. His presence is still felt 41 years later. My sincere sympathy goes out to his entire family.
Misty
December 18, 2022
Dave was always so passionate about issues close to his heart. I alway had trouble not arguing the opposite side of the fence just to get him worked up. The great thing was that often he knew what I was doing but just could not help himself but respond with tons of passion.
May the Lord comfort the entire family.
Victoria Syverson
December 18, 2022
I am so sorry for your loss. I didn’t know any of the family but I knew Officer Zahn from being a long time customer at my job. He also helped me with some legal manners while he was on duty and would come check up on me afterwards. He was very caring & we will miss seeing him walk into our store for lunch! My sympathy to his family and friends.
Jenna Yanda
December 18, 2022
Suzanne and Brogan I’m so sorry for your loss. Dave was a great person and will be missed! I’m praying you both will find comfort knowing he will be watching over you! Sending prayers to you both!
Theresachristensen
December 18, 2022
Haven't seen David since I moved out of Cedar Rapids in 1976. We were friends then. My prayers are with the family.
Bill Danker
December 18, 2022
Dave was a fixture at the CR gun shows, and I always enjoyed talking with him. My prayers to the family. This we all know - Dave sits with his Lord today.
Ed Dolan
December 18, 2022
So sorry to hear of David’s passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. I have known David for several years. He was everybody’s friend. He was a very kind hearted person and would help anybody in need. He like to joke around also one day I was driving through the parking lot at Lindale mall looking for a parking place. I found one and pulled in and parked. I looked up and noticed there was a police car sitting behind me, so I stayed in my car, waiting for the officer to approach me. The officer never got out of his car so I got out of my car and walked towards the officers car. About that time the officer took his sunglasses off, and I realized that it was David. We both had a good laugh over that. I thought sure something was wrong and that’s why an officer was sitting behind me. RIP David. You will be missed by many.
Jan Stegen
December 18, 2022
Dear Zahn Family, We are so sad and shocked to hear of Dave's passing. We were just visiting with him and Ollie on Sunday while we were out walking our dog. We didn't know Dave well, but always enjoyed visiting with Dave, Buzz and Ollie over the years. Our dog Axel (big cream colored lab) loved getting lots of pets from Dave. He was always so friendly and passionate about dogs. We will miss seeing Dave and visiting with him on our walks. Our sincere condolences to your family! God Bless! Todd, Clare, Jack and Axel
Todd and Clare Fagan
December 18, 2022
My wife shared the news of Dave’s passing with me today. So sorry for your loss. I’ve officiated many of Brogans games n always enjoyed seeing him and Suzanne at his games. Grandpa too!
Rip Dave you will be missed.
Kent Possehl
Kent Possehl
December 18, 2022
I am do sorry for your loss. Dave was friends with my brother Lawrence as teenagers. I remember them riding thier ten speeds and going to the Kenwood Elementary school parking lot to fly airplanes. He was one of the nicest friends my brother had back then. He never was annoyed with Lawrence's little sister hanging out with them. I remember going to church and seeing his parents and sister. I think I seen him a couple times in later years. My sister Machelle would see him at her work and she said he was always still very nice. So nice that the goodness never left him. I am so sad to hear a great loving person has been taken from his wife and son, brother and sister. My heart goes out to all of you.
I believe my brother was waiting on the other side for his childhood friend.
Marla Prentice (Noggle)
December 18, 2022
Very sad to hear this news today. Dave was my first training officer. I learned so much from this man! We had some really fun times while working together. My condolences to his family. You will be missed sir. RIP Dave.
Brian
December 18, 2022
Very sad to hear of David’s passing. Our sincere sympathy. We lived across the street from the Zahn family when David was a little boy. In the past couple years I have run into him and had conversations about all the years in between. Last spring spent a long time visiting at a tennis meet with he and his son. What a nice man. His positive energy will certainly be missed.
Linda Osmundson
December 18, 2022
I am so sad to hear of David's passing. My prayers are with you. I ran into David at the 2022 Pride Fest in NewBo. We had a great conversation with much catching up about our lives. He gifted me with a Cedar Rapids Police cap, which he delivered to my home. What a sweet, gentle man. Rest in peace David.
Barb Buchanan
December 18, 2022
Dave Zahn was a one of a kind person. Having known him since he started at CRPD, Dave quickly became a good friend and remained that way since we first met. My sympathy to the Zahn Family for this unexpected loss, Dave will me missed by everyone that knew him. Rest in Peace my friend
Mark A Kelchen
December 18, 2022
Our many thoughts and prayers are with you Suzanne and Brogan. Love, Aunt Marcia, Cheryl and Joe and Dave and Sue ????
Cheryl Ascenzi
December 18, 2022
Dearest Suzanne - I'm so very sorry to hear of your loss. May his memory always be a blessing.
Kathleen Braun
December 18, 2022
Suzanne, I am so sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. He served Cedar Rapids so well as a police officer, and also on the city council as public safety commissioner. and I know he was also a loving husband and father. I have great memories of the many times he stopped in at TV9 when you were producing the 10 o’clock news. He will certainly be missed, and my deepest condolences go to you and Brogan.
Bruce Aune
December 18, 2022
To the Zahn family…we are neighbors and we are thankful that the Zahn family purchased mums (Pilot Club) to help families in need. On occasion we would see Dave walking his dog on our street. He was always friendly and would visit if he saw us doing the same. He was just like that. So sorry for your loss. Keep memories close.
Sue Grant & CM Hamilton
December 18, 2022
Zahn family.
I would like to extend my sympathies. I played baseball with Dave at Mt. Mercy college. Dave was always smiling and made the best of the circumstances. He was willing to go out of his way to help others. He will be missed. Chris Jennings.
Chris jennings
December 18, 2022
My heart is breaking.
Officer Zahn was everything a police officer should be. He was personable and approachable, friendly yet always aware of his surroundings and the people in it.
I remember him fondly from my emergency visits to the 1st Ave hyvee when I’d forgotten an ingredient for a recipe; many times I returned with soup or cookies I’d made simply because I knew he was serving it community without kudos or accolades, which he deserved.
Suzanne, I am so sorry for this enormous loss to you and your family and send prayers and love your way.
Heather Adams
December 18, 2022
I recognize this guy as one I met at an event at newbo, he was a Very nice guy , we had a great conversation , I'd say I felt he was a true Christian , I'm glad I got to meet you , rest in peace kind sir God bless you
Robert Mann
December 17, 2022
Shocked to see the news of Dave's passing. Met Dave when I was dispatcher and he was a rookie officer. Wishing his family peace during this difficult time.
Teri Snell
December 17, 2022
I am so sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. I got to know him while he worked police security at many Kingston Stadium football games or when he’d pass through Jefferson High School from time to time. I always enjoyed visiting with him and appreciated his wit and wisdom. My sincere condolences to his family
Chris Rolwes
December 17, 2022
My deepest sympathies to Suzanne and her son, Brogan. Sending you love and comfort in this difficult time. My prayers are with you.
Amy Dolley
December 17, 2022
I'm so sorry to hear of David's passing. My condolences to his wife Suzanne and all of his family. He was a good man.
Merle Pillard
December 17, 2022
Suzanne and Brogan....Hearts are hurting right now. Dave was a loyal and constant friend to our son and his family as neighbors for many years. "Almost like family" my son would say. Know that we are asking God to comfort you and Brogan during this hard time.
Dave & Marcia Rinderknecht
December 17, 2022
Dear Zahn family, sorry to hear of Davids' passing. I played baseball against him in high school and he was a great competitor. Whether he was winning or losing, the joy he had playing was always evident. I remember that he had a very good fastball. God Bless you all.
Tom Harbit
December 17, 2022
Dear Suzanne and Brogan,
I am so sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. I was one of those drivers he warned about slowing down on 42nd street - especially when I was late going from Kennedy to Harding. I will sincerely miss seeing him at the many Cedar Rapids sporting events. May his memory be eternal.
Liz Driskell
December 17, 2022
Suzanne I’m deeply sorry for your loss. Dave was a great guy I didn’t know him a long time but I considered him a friend. May he rest in peace.
Tremaine woods
December 17, 2022
Suzanne I’m deeply sorry for your loss. Dave was a great guy I didn’t know him a long time but I considered him a friend. May he rest in peace.
Tremaine woods
December 17, 2022
My deepest sympathy for your loss.
Kory Greenwood
December 17, 2022
Suzanne I’m so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family!
Tyler Walker
December 17, 2022
Dave was one of a kind. You always could understand car 767 on the radio.!! He will be missed, and I am so sorry he passed away at such a young age.
Stephanie Vandezandschulp
December 17, 2022
I am shocked to have come across the loss of a great officer,man, a person who after many encounters as a criminal, and he an officer, I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing.
He was one of a kind, and please except my deepest heart felt condolences for comfort in your time of loss and heart ache.
He will be sadly missed.
RIP..SIR, Thank You for all you did to help make me into a law abiding citizen.
Robert
December 17, 2022
My deepest condolences to you Suzanne and Brogan. I remember when he shared with a small group of us that he had bought a ring for you….he was giddy and he was giddy everyday after that. He joked that he’d be embarrassed if you said no on air. Dave was a beautiful person that had a passion for his work and a deep deep love for his family and his dogs. When he first went on the force he got me carrying pepper spray and even made me spray myself so I would know what it did in case I had to use it. I’ve told that story a million times I bet. I wish there were more like him. May you find comfort in all your memories of him and the ones others share with you.
Machelle Bryan
December 17, 2022
Suzanne,
I am so deeply sorry to hear of Dave's passing. I will never forget all of his pop in moments when you were @ KCRG on the 10 pm shift or when he proposed to you and we all knew but you did not. He was so passionate about coaching and only wanted the best for those boys. Hold those memories tight, he was one of a kind fierce but so loyal to you and Brogan.
Michelle, Craig, Cale & Camden Medberry
Michelle Medberry
December 17, 2022
Our many thoughts and prayers are with you Suzanne and Brogan. Love, Aunt Marcia, Cheryl and Joe and Dave and Sue
Cheryl Ascenzi
December 17, 2022
I've known David for a very long time especially out working at the football stadium and the football games he would always come over especially if Nancy had her special Nancy Buffet out for food for all of the volunteer responders.very sad to see this.
Rich Struve
December 17, 2022
Will miss you Dave, a good freind for many years, you were always there for people, friends or total strangers needing help.
Kurt Waskow
December 17, 2022