David King Hysell

David King Hysell, passed away at the age of 85 on September 16, 2024, from complications of Parkinson’s Disease. Born in 1939, during the tail end of the Great Depression, he grew up in Meigs County, Ohio. His early love for animals shaped the course of his life and career.

David put himself through veterinary school at The Ohio State University, working in the OSU meat lab to cover his expenses. He later earned a master’s degree from the University of Michigan, furthering his expertise in the field. Every November, regardless of the outcome, David bragged that “his team” won the Ohio State - Michigan game.

His life was filled with notable achievements. As a major in the U.S. Army for nine years, his contributions to lab animal medicine earned him the prestigious Meritorious Service Medal. He later conducted research for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and managed the lab animal facility at Procter & Gamble’s Miami Valley Labs in Ross, Ohio.

In addition to his professional work, David was a devoted community leader. As a Reily Township Trustee for sixteen years, he established an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) squad and secured a vehicle donation. He also played a key role in preventing an industrial waste site from being placed in his community.

Beyond his career, David was an avid reader, self-reflective thinker, and passionate bird watcher who loved long walks in the woods. He loved working on his farm in Reily, Ohio, raising sheep, and spoiling his dogs. He also had a deep love for travel, exploring all seven continents, with his wife Janet, in pursuit of life’s wonders.

David’s legacy of hard work, service, and love for his family will live through countless lives he touched. He is survived by Janet his wife of 61 years; his children, Steven (Soo), James (Ashley), and Jennifer La Fayette (Paul); three grandchildren, Allison Hysell, Cameron La Fayette and Riley La Fayette; and siblings, John (Barb) Hysell and Koste (Saleh) El Dabaja. He is predeceased by his parents Victor and Mary Hysell and sister Grace Chaney.

A private family service to honor his life will be held on September 20, 2024 at Union Cemetery. His memory will forever live in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.