David Scott Byrne

David ‘Dave’ Scott Byrne was born to parents Phyllis and Philip Byrne on January 7, 1965 in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Dave passed away peacefully in his home on October 5, 2024 in Ralston, NE at age 59 surrounded by his loving family.

Dave attended Grand Forks Central High School and graduated in 1983. Dave’s love for sports, especially hockey and football, inspired him to pursue a career in Athletic Training. He graduated from North Dakota State University with a degree in Sports Medicine.

On August 9, 1991, Dave married his best friend and partner Julie Zabel. They later relocated to Omaha, Nebraska, where Dave dedicated 28 years of service to Methodist Jennie Edmundson Sports Medicine. Dave thoroughly enjoyed his career as a Certified Athletic Trainer at Lewis Central High School. His work touched the lives of countless student athletes, as he served as a mentor and friend to many. Dave continued to be a strong supporter and fan to the Lewis Central sports programs and considered them to be an extension of his family.

During the summers, Dave found great joy spending time at his family cabin in Maple Lake, MN., The lake cabin served as a peaceful retreat, where he enjoyed fishing, boating, and spending time with those closest to him. Many of Dave’s favorite memories were surrounded by family, friends, and sports. When not at the lake, Dave was a sports enthusiast who loved supporting the Nebraska Cornhuskers, Minnesota Vikings, and UNO Hockey.

Though Dave faced a decade-long battle with cancer, it did not define him. Dave will be remembered for his strength, resilience, offbeat sense of humor, and his ‘Never give up’ attitude. Dave’s positivity in the face of adversity was unmatched, and his perseverance was something to behold.

Dave is survived by his devoted wife, Julie Byrne; daughter, Jamie Byrne (Perry Jr.); son, Michael Byrne; and cherished grandson, Perry Storm III; siblings, Mike Byrne (Patricia) of Fargo, ND, Nancy Davis (Ron) of Running Springs, CA, Mitch Byrne (Karen) of Grand Forks, ND, Michele Lange (Jeff) of Brooklyn Park, MN, and Patrick Byrne (Kelly) of Fargo, ND; along with countless nieces and nephews.

Dave will forever be remembered for his love of family and friends, dedication to his career, and his unwavering spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and passion that will be carried on by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a contribution to a memorial fund to be designated at a future date. A celebration of Dave’s life will take place in Omaha on Saturday, November 16th at Legends Patio Grill and Bar – Aksarben (6920 Pacific St. Suite 100) from 12-4PM.