David Michael King

Dave King died of stage IV melanoma at age 56. That’s true. But that’s not who Dave was.

He had three bachelor’s degrees and a job as Chief Information Officer at Arizona State Retirement System. But that’s not who Dave was.

Dave shone, not through his accolades, but through his essence. He was the oak tree, love and best friend to his wife, Bahar Anooshahr. He was a devoted and loving father who was always there for his three beautiful daughters, Lexie, Lauren and Morgan. He was the glue that brought the family together. He was “My Suns Daddy” to basketball fans.

Dave shared his love of the Suns with 23,000 underprivileged children through his annual Bright Side Night event and his love of the game through his Bright Side blog and Solar Panel podcast. When the Suns’ community learned of his death, the outpouring of grief from his friends and fans was a testament to just how many lives he’d touched.

Dave’s heart belonged to his family and the Phoenix Suns. When his illness became terminal, he focused all his energy on setting aside grudges and savoring his relationships with all the people he loved. He was surrounded by family to the end.

He is survived by his wife; daughters; parents, Jackie Paulson and Gerald “Jerry” King; and his sister, Diane Stouffer.

Dave could have had a thousand degrees or none, been a CIO or a King or a grocery bagger. It wouldn’t have mattered. He would have impacted people with his generosity, his passion, his humor, and his love. Because that’s who Dave was.

To cherish his memory and zeal for life, there will be a Celebration of Life for family and friends on Feb. 24th.