David Vernon Thyfault

David Vernon Thyfault was received into the arms of His Savior peacefully on Sunday, October 4, 2026. Born on December 14, 1950, he was a proud native of Colorado, where he grew up with his five beloved sisters. He met his wife Debra in 1968; they were married in 1972 and shared a wonderful life together for 54 years. He was a graduate of the University of Colorado, earning a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering, and later a Master of Science in Astronautical Engineering from the Air Force Institute of Technology. He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force for 23 years in both the enlisted ranks and as an officer, with multiple assignments overseas and in the U.S. He retired honorably as a Lt. Colonel in 1994. He was a loving, supportive, and much beloved father to his two daughters and was proud and happy to welcome his two precious sons-in-law into his life.

David was passionate about his hobbies and interests, which included collecting stamps, motorcycles, music, movies, and opera. He was also a proud Highland bagpiper for over 40 years. He played with bagpipe bands in California and Colorado, taught numerous students, and enjoyed playing whenever he could until his final days. He was a man of strong and devoted faith, prayerfully God-centered, and led his life as a living testimony to his Heavenly Father. He was generous, gracious, humorous, supportive, and whole-heartedly loved his family and others in his life. He was prayerful and caring, a generous friend, neighbor, and colleague to so many who crossed his path wherever he was.

With honor and dignity, he fought and survived a diagnosis of cancer, brain trauma and medical conditions that surprised many doctors by the miracles of his 'Great Physician'. Throughout it all, he maintained a positive attitude and brought joy to others around him through singing and being a welcoming, friendly face. His final 'assignment' brought him to Texas, where he and his wife moved to be closer to family. The family wish to thank the staff and residents of Frank M. Tejada Texas State Veterans Home, where he shared his last months amongst his friends and fellow veterans, and was cared for with love, respect, and honor.

David will be laid to rest at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado. He is preceded in death by his father-in-law John, father Vern, mother-in-law Nettie, mother Jean, sister-in-law Karen, and sisters Erica, Linda, and Nancy. He is survived by his wife Debra, daughter Heidi (Jeff), daughter Hansi (Jasper), and his twin sisters Becky (Rick) and Chrissy (Dave).

Philippians 1:21 (David's life verse) - "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain."

Psalm 118:17 - "I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the Lord."

Psalm 23:7 - "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever."