David William Jorgenson

He is survived by his wife Kaila, and 11-week-old son, Finn; his parents Richard Jorgenson and Laurel Humphries; and his sibling Todd, Jodi, Jeff, Amy and Jimi.

David’s life was too amazing and loving to sum up in words on a page. David was best known for his sense of humor and generous heart. He absolutely loved to make people laugh. He was gifted at turning ordinary events or mannerisms into hilarious stories or side-splitting imitations. He was able to soothe awkward, sad, and stressful situations with something as simple as a look. Without a doubt, he will be remembered for the way he made people smile and laugh.

David had a tremendously giving heart. He would give you is last dollar and often did. Without fail, he visited loved ones and sent thoughtful cards and messages, often sacrificing to do so. He was never too busy to help others. He was a true example of charity.

Everyone around David loved him. In fact, most people called him their best friend. He had a way of making others feel instantly comfortable around him and usually had them laughing within minutes. He loved people and was so much fun to be around. This gift was one of many of David’s.

David’s first time seeing the ocean was in Negril, Jamaica. It was definitely one of his favorite places on earth. He could genuinely find peace and relax there. He fell in love with the sand, water, and Kaila. They were married on that very beach in 2011.

One of David’s biggest accomplishments was becoming a husband and father. He loved Kaila with all of his heart and was a very proud Dad. Kaila and Finn brought him the most joy in life, and he lived every day for them.

David had a second “son” his dog Hiro. He frequently sent out pictures of Hiro cuddling with Finn, swimming in the pool, or simply sleeping. He has a soft spot for animals and Hiro was surely one of the luckiest pets to have Davey for his “dad”.

Anyone who knew David knew he was extremely protective of his car. It was regularly washed and kept in pristine condition. He analyzed the sounds it made and constantly monitored it for scratches. When he knocked the outside mirror off, it was time to sell it and he did!

There wasn’t a kid on earth that met David and didn’t want to hang out with him, forever. It was effortless for David to make kids fall in love with him. He truly loved children and had a special place in his heart for them. He once got every niece and nephew singing “Ting, Tong, Thai, you’re my favorite uncle.” Unquestionably, he was.

David was an incredibly gifted learner. He could take virtually any subject, study it, and become an expert. Despite not having a degree, he studied and was able to become one of the best ABA therapists in his company. But he didn’t stop there. He was promoted to Behavioral Services Coordinator and assumed countless responsibilities. This potential to learn and study was immense, another of his incredible gifts.

David devoted his professional life to helping children and families with autism. He was passionate about the children that he served and skilled in the interventions he used. This talent, and seemingly endless enthusiasm, enriched the lives of families all across Arizona (and Minnesota). This experience and years of hard work led to a training position in AZA United where David was charged with teaching others how to do what he so skillfully demonstrated. His training and guidance will outlive him, undoubtedly touching the lives of many more individuals to come. The autism community and the families that he touched will miss him greatly.

David loved Apple and Steve Jobs. There was rarely a day he didn’t talk about the next big Apple product or update. Steve Jobs once said, “We’ve got to make the small things unforgettable.” David, you will assuredly never be forgotten. You left an unforgettable mark on this earth and in each of our hearts. Rest in contented peace, David, until we meet again.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, May 16, 2014, 9:00 am at Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park Cemetery, 6747 E. Broadway Road, Mesa, AZ 85206