Roll Call Tribute

David Ray Synatzske 

December 2, 1949 - October 16, 2024 

David Ray Synatzske, 74, of Boerne, Texas, passed away on Wednesday. October 16, 2024. His family will receive guests for visitation at 10:00 AM on Friday, October 25, 2024 at First Baptist Church Boerne, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM. A reception will be held immediate following. He will be laid to rest at Hope Lutheran Memorial Park in Buckholts, Texas on Saturday, October 26, 2024 at 11:00 AM.

David was born on December 2, 1949, in Temple, Texas, to Clement Synatzske and Billye Sell. David graduated from Rogers High School in 1968 and soon met the love of his life, Cheryl Heitman. They were united in marriage on May 22, 1971, in Cameron, Texas. The couple resided in College Station while he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Fisheries Science at Texas A&M University as part of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of '72. Together, they raised three children: Stacey, Brian, and Kimberly.

David had a distinguished 39-year career with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, retiring in 2012. In 1982, he relocated his family to Cotulla after being promoted as Area Manager of the Chaparral Wildlife Management Area. As a father, he recognized the vital role of youth in the future of natural resources and organized numerous events specifically for young people during his time at the Chap, including youth shooting sports and his involvement with Brigades.

His impactful work in research, development of exceptional outreach programs, and implementation of conservation principles earned him the title of Outstanding Professional of the Year from the Texas Chapter of The Wildlife Society. Additionally, David actively participated with the Texas Wildlife Association, serving as a Director and on the Executive Committee, having been honored as TWA Honorary Director Emeritus, further solidifying his legacy in wildlife conservation.

In Cotulla, David was a dedicated volunteer with the La Salle County Fair Association, initially becoming involved when his children showed through the years, and later serving on the board. In 2018, his efforts were memorialized as Wild Hog Cook-Off namesake. He also volunteered with the Royal Ambassador summer camp shooting sports where he was known for integrating scripture in with his testimony to young men.

A lifelong hunting enthusiast, he shared his passion with his children and later several grandchildren. He traveled extensively to support their various academic and athletic endeavors. Saturdays were spent yelling for his beloved Aggies, particularly during baseball and football seasons.

David is survived by his wife, Cheryl, of Boerne; his daughter Stacey ('97) and husband Gary Kanak of New Braunfels; his son Brian and wife Cara Synatzske of Celina; his daughter Kimberly ('07) and husband Travis Hanebrink of Paducah, KY; his grandchildren Logan Kanak ('25), Berkley and Brodie Synatzske, Joseph and Daniel Hanebrink, and Britton Synatzske; his aunt Elaine Sell; sister Linda Kunz; his brother and sister-in law Jerry and Carol Heitman; his nieces Jennifer Rodriguez and Abbye Kunz; along with several cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents Billye and Clement Synatzske; his uncle Ray Sell; his nephew Jason Heitman; his niece Kristin McKittrick; and his son-in-law Justin Lynch.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Baptist Church of Boerne's Legacy Fund or to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Youth Shooting Events at www.texas-wildlife.org/ways-to-give-twaf  (select TPWD Youth Shooting as the restriction).

Arrangements are under the care and direction of the staff of Holt & Holt Funeral Home of Boerne. To share words of comfort with the family, please visit www.holtfh.com.