David Leroy Hench

Dave is survived by his wife of 50 years, Ann Botkin Hench. He was preceded in death by his parents, LeRoy Talmadge Hench and Laura Hench; his sister, Mary Hench Brown; and his brother, Jim Hench.

David was born on May 19, 1941, on his family farm in Cherokee, Iowa, nestled in the scenic Little Sioux River Valley. From an early age, Dave had a deep thirst for knowledge and a genuine desire to make the world a better place. His passions included technology, nature, learning new languages and cultures, and—most of all—his family.

An electrical engineer by training, Dave earned his Ph.D. from Rice University in 1972. Over the course of his career, he became a respected thought leader in research related to digital video and imaging systems standards. His work led to exciting and impactful opportunities with Rockwell, Panasonic, Coax Cable, and the United States Air Force.

Dave was an avid scuba diver who filled his home with stunning underwater photographs taken during adventures around the world. His passion for life and learning took him from California to Mexico and the Caribbean, and as far as Australia, always in search of the perfect underwater image and the spiciest local cuisine.

His love of learning extended to languages as well. Dave regularly watched foreign films—with subtitles—so he could study local languages, dialects, and customs before traveling. His curiosity and respect for other cultures were a defining part of who he was.

Dave’s love for learning, nature, and exploration was truly inspiring. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A private family ceremony was held on Friday, December 26, at Earthman Memory Gardens in Baytown, Texas