Former South Suburban Executive Director David Lorenz passed away on Monday, Sept. 8, 2025.

Lorenz’s career spanned 48 years with the organization, beginning as the supervisor of the old Burns outdoor ice-skating rink in 1967. He went on to serve as the executive director for 30 years before retiring in 2015. Under his leadership, South Suburban earned three National Gold Medal Awards, the highest honor for a parks and recreation agency.

“His vision helped create the South Suburban standards of excellence you see today,” said South Suburban Board Chair Pam Eller. “His passion for recreation was evident as Dave truly embodied a South Suburban lifestyle. When not at work, you could find him playing golf, walking on a trail, or playing tennis. His enduring legacy is reflected in the organizational growth he championed and the accessible recreation amenities he helped create, which will benefit generations to come.”

During his tenure, he developed the Goodson, Sheridan, Lone Tree and Buck recreation centers, as well as the Holly Pool and Tennis Center, Cook Creek Pool, Littleton Golf and Tennis, and Lone Tree Tennis Center. He negotiated the purchase of Lone Tree Golf Club & Hotel, as well as the acquisition of open space along the South Platte River.

Most recently, the David A. Lorenz Regional Park, dedicated in 2003, was expanded to include three synthetic-turf lighted fields and a dog park.

Family, friends, and colleagues are welcome to attend a Celebration of Life at the Lone Tree Golf Club & Hotel (9808 Sunningdale Blvd, Lone Tree) on September 29, between 4-7 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association in his name.