David Reid Marchbanks' Obituary
David Reid Marchbanks, 74, of Syracuse, Utah, passed away peacefully on November 20, 2025, in the presence of his family after a lingering illness. He was born on August 6, 1951, in Orem, Utah, to Reid Willis Marchbanks and Jeannine (Manning) Marchbanks.
Dave lived a life marked by constancy, devotion, and quiet strength. He earned a bachelor’s degree and spent his career in information technologies, where he became a gifted, self-taught computer programmer. His work reflected who he was—steady, thoughtful, and meticulous. He later served as a service missionary in the IT department of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a role he cherished deeply. His faith in Jesus Christ guided his decisions, shaped his priorities, and brought him joy. One of the highlights of his week was in attending the temple, a place where he felt peace and purpose. Dave took the admonition to be a "member missionary" seriously and never passed up an opportunity to share the gospel. Whether it was talking with a person standing in line next to him at the grocery store or someone sitting next to him on the ski lift, he felt driven to share the good news of the gospel.
For 23 years, Dave shared his life with his beloved wife, Tana Marie Marchbanks—his “beautiful princess.” His affection for her was steady and unwavering, expressed not through grand gestures but through daily acts of love, support, and commitment. His good-natured saying, “Yes, Dear, whatever you say,” became a phrase we all loved to hear.
Dave’s interests were varied and eclectic. He was an oil painter and a musician, playing classical guitar, banjo, and violin with the same dedication he brought to every part of his life. He valued time with his family above all else—enjoying family game nights, skiing with his children and grandchildren, and spending time outdoors with them whenever he could. He found joy in long-distance biking, working with vehicle mechanics, and cooking - made even more meaningful when shared with family and friends.
He spent many years singing with the Provo Community Choir and had a dry, subtle sense of humor his family will always remember—often a smile was brought up when someone mentioned “the handmade moonshine still that we don’t talk about.”
In recent years, Dave developed an interest in learning Spanish. He spent hours studying on Duolingo, steadily building his skills in the same persistent manner he approached everything. Music by Shakira and Prince Royce became familiar in his home, bringing him real enjoyment.
Dave not only cared for immediate family and close friends but had a concern for the wellbeing of all around him. One example was show in his life-long passion for emergency preparedness which drove his desire to have enough supplies on hand to take care of not only his family but his neighbors and anyone else in need during a calamity.
More than anything, Dave was a man who loved quietly and served sincerely. He didn’t seek attention or recognition; instead, he offered stability, thoughtfulness, and dependability. His family always knew they could count on him, and that legacy of steadiness will be felt for generations.
Dave is survived by his wife, Tana; his children and stepchildren: Heather Swank (Kim), Aaron Marchbanks (Erin), Matthew Marchbanks (Tabitha), Dorothy Thomas, Abigail Marchbanks, George Marchbanks, Anjelique Gearhart, Lorryn Gearhart, Tandy Bobo (Jim), and Tassie Murray (Matthew). He is also survived by his grandchildren—Travis, Ethan, Cameron, Olivia, Austin, Sidney, Aubrey, Grayson, Malachi, Gavin, Aubrey, Kyle, Ryan, Brandt, Jace, Gwendolyn, Monroe, Jack, Sam, and Abe—and his great-grandchildren, Braxton and Timothy. He leaves behind his siblings, Stephen Marchbanks (Diana) and Lesa Wanders (Carl), along with many nieces, nephews, and extended loved ones.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his stepdaughter, Taran Johnson; and his son, Willis Marchbanks.
A celebration of life for family members and close friends will be held in the near future.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice. The family warmly welcomes any memories or stories shared in the comments of this obituary, as they bring comfort and peace during this time of grieving.
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