David J Wagstaff

David James Wagstaff, the center of our world, passed away Thursday, January 8th, after a valiant battle with cancer. Dave's strength was exemplary. He was a positive, outgoing person, always interested in others. He was a kind, generous man who gave quietly to many. He was an active member of the Salt lake Rotary and served for many years on the board of Friends of Sight. Dave was a graduate of East High School, where he was on the swim team and with friends, formed a dance band. He then served a mission for the LDS Church in Australia. He received a Bachelor of Science degree and Masters in Business Administration from the University of Utah in 1966. His first employment was with Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, Michigan where he made many life-long friends. Later, he trained as a stockbroker with Merrill-Lynch in New York City and returned to Salt Lake to establish his career. Dave was successful in business, founding two money management firms. In 1975 he co-founded Wasatch Advisors and in 1981 founded Alta Capital Management. He was unwavering in his ethics and honesty. Dave was a man who lived life to the fullest. He was interested in politics and current affairs and entered into many lively conversations about both. He also enjoyed nature, swimming, hiking, skiing, motorcycles and beautiful cars. He loved classical music and was a season supporter of the Utah Symphony. Personally, he played the piano and the oboe. Both Dave and his wife Susan enjoyed traveling and were fortunate to see many interesting parts of the world.Dave was preceded in death by his brother, Wendell Wagstaff. He is survived by his wife, Susan, his son Jon Wagstaff, his daughter, Wendee (Matt) McClellan and his grandchildren, Oskar and Simone McClellan. He is also survived by his sister, Jessie Claire (Will) Ashby.The family wishes to express their gratitude to the health care professionals at the Huntsman Cancer Center who provided such excellent care.A memorial service will be held Wednesday, January 14th, at 11:30 a.m. in the chapel at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 South Highland Drive, Salt Lake City, Utah. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.In lieu of flowers please consider a contribution to AML research at the Huntsman Cancer Center. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/saltlaketribune/obituary.aspx?n=david-james-wagstaff&pid=173804695&fhid=11609#sthash.eXoEZNah.dpuf