David John Lavaque

David John LaVaque of Woodbury, Minnesota passed away on Saturday, July 18, 2025 at the age of 50, after a long illness. He was born on October 14, 1975 in St. Paul, Minnesota where he grew up playing hockey and baseball. He went to St Mark’s for elementary school, and was a proud St. Paul Johnson graduate.

David graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2003, with a degree in journalism and rhetoric.

He worked as a writer for the Minnesota Daily newspaper while attending the U of M, where he perfected his writing chops. He went on to cover prep sports for the Minneapolis Star Tribune and he wrote about many different high school sports, but he had a special love of hockey. He co-authored a book, “Tourney Time,” a lookback at the Minnesota State High School Hockey Tournament and was released in time for the event’s 75th anniversary.

He was actively involved in sports, cycling, and running. He was a huge fan of Bruce Springsteen and had a deep appreciation for music in general, as well as movies.

David is preceded in death by his father, Richard John LaVaque.

David was survived by his daughter, Michaela LaVaque; mother, Judy Underdahl; brother, Steven LaVaque; Sarah LaVaque; many nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, and countless friends.

The family would like to thank the Jones-Harrison Residence in Minneapolis for the care and compassion they showed our loved one in their final days. They cared for David with kindness and compassion, and were always communicative with his family and friends. We would also like to thank Moments Hospice for giving David care and comfort in his final months.

There will be a celebration of David’s life later this summer, and his family will circulate details before then.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in their honor to:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/gvvam3-support-davids-medical-recovery-journey

David will be forever loved and missed.