David Allen Fiske, (age 59) of Steeles Tavern Virginia died unexpectedly from a sudden illness on Friday, November 16, 2018. He was born on September 14, 1959 in Charlottesville Virginia. David spent his younger years on the family farm and surrounding community near Aldie, Virginia. David was a loving son, brother, uncle, dedicated agriculturalist, community volunteer and caring friend to many in his community. David graduated from Loudoun County High School in 1977. He furthered his education at The University of Nebraska, earning his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Agribusiness and Agriculture Economics. “Forever a Husker, Go Big Red”! David was not only dedicated to his family and friends but also to many organizations; some of which include: Aldie Volunteer Fire Department (inactive), Raphine Volunteer Fire Company, Virginia Forage and Grassland Council, Augusta County FFA/4-H Market Animal Show and Sale and previous President of Augusta County Fair. David was employed as Superintendent of the Virginia Tech Shenandoah Valley Research Farm in Raphine, Virginia. Past employment included Loudoun County Virginia Sheriff Dispatcher, Fairfax County Virginia Firefighter, Nelson County Virginia Extension Agent, Augusta County Virginia Extension Agent, and Agricultural/Ranch Manager of Rollins Ranch. He was preceded in death by his mother, Betty W. Fiske. David is survived by his father, Richard H. Fiske of Leesburg Virginia; his special and dear friend, Jacqueline “Jackie” Parr and family of Roseland Virginia. He is also survived by three siblings, Ellen Stewart (Bob) of Cedar Bluff, Alabama, Billy “Tiger” Fiske of Staunton, Virginia and Nancy Freeman (Dan) of Marietta, Georgia. He had 6 wonderful nieces and nephews, Nicole Varn (Nathan) and children Daven, Grady and Anslee, Alex Stewart, Zach Daly, Will Fiske, Morgan Stewart, and Kara Freeman. Also survived by step-niece Amanda Dellerba (Chris) and daughter Camden and stepnephew Mark Freeman.

Memories of David Fiske from the VFGC

David was so much more than an officer of VFGC Board, he was a dedicated servant member, holding steadfast to the mission and the values of the VFGC, working continuously to promote the practical and best use of forages and the management of livestock on grasslands in Virginia. I’m grateful for the 10 years that I knew David, for all that he taught me and shared with me, and how he demonstrated living a life of service through his career and in his active membership in many community and statewide organizations. Let us remember David Fiske, a humble servant, quiet leader, consummate professional and dedicated friend. Long live his legacy through those he touched and shaped in this world. – J. B. Daniel

Virginia agriculture lost a valuable leader, educator and innovator with the passing of David Fiske. David dedicated his life to all aspects of agriculture. He was one of those rare individuals that could instantly evaluate a situation and present multiple options. As treasurer of the VFGC he was a fierce protector of council finances, a trait that we teased him about at every opportunity. He was an absolute professional as superintendent of the McCormick Farm in Raphine. The VFGC offers its sincerest sympathy to his family. Dear Friend I will respect, admire and miss you forever. – Alan Spivey

David’s other valuable contributions are to the Virginia Forage and Grassland Council. He had uninhibited enthusiasm and love for the forage industry. Over the last 15 years or so, he had dedicated himself to various leadership roles that requires high organizational skill, and passion for the organization. Professionally, he offered unusual talents covering a broad spectrum of practical knowledge in the areas of forages and livestock, and he was a fine historian and storyteller (about McCormick Farm). – Ozzie Abaye

David was, above all else, a tireless steward of the time and talents he was given. His life was one of selfless service to others, and his impact will ripple outward long past his death. May David’s life be an example for each of us to follow. – Matt Booher

For the past eighteen years, I have had the honor and privilege of working with David Fiske. He was always available to assist anyone who needed his help, and I will truly miss him. – Margaret Kenny

David Fiske was a hero and friend to innumerable young students and farmers. David’s love for forages, cattle, and keeping a balanced budget was infectious and inspiring. He will be sorely missed. His legacy will continue on in the lives of those that he served so selflessly and the land and community that he cared for so affectionately. – Gabriel Pent