David E Switzer, age 78, died peacefully on October 16, 2025. Born in 1947, Dave was a Communications Professor and Amateur Umpire who traveled North America umpiring all levels of international baseball tournaments. Dave spent most of his life in Fort Wayne, living in Wabash, IN; Champaign, IL and Albany, NY as well.

Dave is survived by his wife Jo, of Longmont, Colorado, and his stepchildren Sarah Keller and John (Cynthia) Keller, and John's daughter, Miriam Keller, also of Longmont, Colorado.

Dave has one son, Matt Switzer of California, married to Nikki Switzer. Dave has two grandchildren, Elijah and Emily Switzer, who also reside in California. They affectionately referred to Dave as "Pop."

Known as "Doc" by umpire friends, Dave taught oral communications at IPFW and Manchester College. He enjoyed rooting for the Fighting Illini of the University of Illinois, where he received his doctorate, and the New York Yankees. He attended cooking school in Italy multiple times, and also enjoyed officiating high school football. Dave confirmed his faith in Jesus on October 10, 2025. As one of Dave's favorite singers Jimmy Buffett sang: "Some of it's magic, some of it's tragic, but I had a good life all the way."

A funeral service will be held at 1pm on Monday, October 20th at the Chapel at Concordia Cemetery Gardens 5365 Lake Ave in Fort Wayne, with visiting two hours before. Pastor Larry Merino to officiate.