David L. Barth, PhD

On June 15, 2022, David Barth, PhD (AKA “Dr. Dave”) passed away in his Gainesville, FL home, surrounded by family.

David was born to Joy and George Barth on June 14, 1955 in Greensboro, NC. He met his wife and partner of 42 years, Denise, in Flagler Beach, and the two enjoyed a life built on love, trust, and adventure. David’s work brought them to Orlando and West Palm Beach before moving to Gainesville in 2012.

David contemplated retiring, but decided to pursue his PhD in Design, Construction, and Planning instead, officially becoming “Dr. Dave” at the age of 60. In 2021, he was elected to the Council of Fellows by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), one of the highest honors in his profession. Known for his holistic approach to parks system planning, David led the design of hundreds of parks and trails projects across the United States. He was respected and loved for his creativity, intelligence, humor, kindness, and wisdom, and will be missed by all who knew him.

David was preceded in death by his parents, and is survived by his wife Denise, his children Abigail (Luke), Elliot (Abbie), and his third “child," Carlos (Iliet), grandchildren Rowan and Calluna, siblings Diane (Joel) and Rick, and nephew Simon (Blair).

David’s family asks that he be honored with donations to two of his favorite organizations: Gainesville Area Rowing (www.gainesvillearearowing.com), and the Alachua Conservation Trust (www.alachuaconservationtrust.org). A commemorative paddle down one of David’s favorite rivers will be announced later this year, as the water was where he felt at peace.