David “Fuzzy D” Patrick Rohan, 49 years old, died in St. Paul Park, Minnesota on October 20th, 2023.

David was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1974 to Michael and Judith Rohan who supported his interests from an early age. A true Renaissance man, Dave’s intelligence and talent included an aptitude for foreign languages, the creation of intricate shapes known as Platonic solids, and an innate gift for music that allowed him to master virtually any instrument he picked up. Known to many as Fuzzy D, David's charisma, friendliness, and endlessly creative mind left a lasting impact on all those fortunate enough to have known him. He was a beacon of positivity and an embodiment of the belief that there's no such thing as dreaming too big. Dave graduated from Marquette High School in 1992 before attending Marquette University on a full scholarship where he completed a double major in French and German with honors.

Dave played in several successful bands in Milwaukee and the Minneapolis/St Paul area during the 1990s and 2000s. Before suffering a massive stroke in 2013, Dave taught guitar, piano and drums to youth through Project CHEER through the Schubert Club. Adored by his students, Dave encouraged and inspired a new generation of musicians. The disabilities caused by his stroke limited his professional aspirations and ability to play instruments, though he continued to expand his insatiable musical creativity using synthesizers. He lived his life with an unquenchable thirst for creativity and an incredibly warm and fuzzy personality.

Dave and his beloved wife, Deborah (nee Magnussen), enjoyed fall camping, music festivals and spending time together cooking and gardening. Deb and Dave shared a life where they began each day with a positive outlook and a focus on the present moment. Dave’s dog, Mindy, was a loyal friend who was always by his side.

Dave is preceded in death by his father, Michael. He is survived by his wife Deborah, mother Judith, brother Christopher, sister Amy (Wayne), and many adoring aunts, uncles, and cousins, as well as a lifetime of true friends. Dave will be remembered for his sparkling smile and funky beats. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to Project CHEER at schubert.org/education/projec…. Other considerations include the cleanairfund.org, thewaterproject.org, globalgiving.org, the American Council for the Blind at acb.org, or research for stroke rehabilitation and asthma prevention. We thank you all for your support during this difficult time and for keeping David's spirit alive in your thoughts and actions.

Do something kind for someone today. Make someone smile. These small acts of kindness will help Dave live on.

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