David Mark Waxman

David Mark Waxman, age 89, of Chandler, AZ, passed away on August 22, 2023. He was born on June 24, 1934. David was much loved as a husband, father, and grandfather, and uncle. He possessed a remarkable level of education and job experience, and was always eager to share his knowledge and help another. He had a special affinity for animals and was always willing to provide a home for those in need.

David is survived by his loving wife of almost 66 years, Jean Waxman, and their children, daughter Roberta Kagno, daughter Linda Champney and her husband Duncan Champney, and son, Will Waxman. He also leaves behind six grandchildren Liz, Tali, Luke, Ryan, Jared, and Jonathan. David is also survived by his sister, Joan Wintman, Nephew Michael and DIL Laurie, Nephew Donald and DIL Wendy, Nephew Howard and DIL Rhonda, and many other loving nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father William Waxman, mother Annette Waxman, brother Herbert Waxman, and brother-in-law Calvin Wintman.

David's educational journey took him to Case Western Reserve University and the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences. He went on to end an illustrious career as the owner of David M. Waxman Consultant in Phoenix, AZ for 24 years. His motto, "Have laptop, will travel," exemplified his dedication and versatility. He worked as a contractor until he was 83 years old! David met many wonderful friends during his career, working for Prime, Mitre, Digital Equipment Systems and CSPI but became especially close to Paul George, Steve Schwarm, and John Meyn.

Best friend Paul George had this to say about David:

“Dave Waxman was a genius in a room full of geniuses.

He helped design the current air traffic control system. The current U.S. attack submarine sonar and targeting system. He redesigned the IEEE floating point standard that basically is the basis for all GPS, Launch ballistic mathematics, and scientific math calculations.

He was a great father, a great teacher, a great friend and a great human being.

The world is a worse place without him. He will be missed. I was proud to be his friend.”


In addition to his profound professional accomplishments, David shared his knowledge as a teacher at Harvard University at the Masters Level, Northeastern University, and Framingham State College. He loved working with students, helping shape the next generation of mathematicians and computer scientists.

Outside of his family and career, David enjoyed playing racquetball and engaging in friendly games of bridge and poker. He had a deep appreciation for classical and folk music. He also loved science fiction and collected books and records. He never could resist a good science fiction show or do-it-yourself show. He had a weakness for a good buffet, always unable to resist the allure of a delicious spread. Chinese cuisine was a definite favorite!

A celebration of David's life will be held online at a date to be determined. His memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved him. We will be in contact with that date in the near future.