David William Bishop

David W. Bishop, M.D., a highly respected member of the Durango community and Ophthalmic doctor and surgeon, passed away on June 25, 2023, at the age of 90.
 
Born on March 5, 1933, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, David and his family moved west from Oklahoma City to Durango in 1968. This move to Colorado started a dedicated career of nearly 50 years of providing exceptional ophthalmic care and treatment of eye diseases in Durango. Before retiring at the age of 84, he served in various leadership positions including a term as the Chief of Staff at Mercy Medical Center and as Assistant Clinical Professor at Denver Health, where he mentored and inspired the next generation of medical professionals.
 
Dr. Bishop's commitment to his Christian faith was exemplified in his character, his dedicated annual reading of the bible cover to cover, and through his involvement in the First Presbyterian Church. Since moving to Durango, he actively attended and served his church in every leadership role, including church elder, deacon and secretary of session. He also will be remembered for being a passionate Sunday School teacher for over 50 years.
 
Driven by a desire to extend his medical expertise to those in need worldwide, Dr. Bishop, alongside his devoted family, embarked on numerous medical missions to impoverished regions across the globe. From Mexico to Africa, China to Iraq's war torn areas, Dr. Bishop selflessly shared his knowledge and skills, improving the eye sight and quality of life for countless individuals.
 
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Bishop was an avid athlete and adventurer. He was an esteemed member of the Durango Master's Swim Team, earning seven state championship titles. Dr. Bishop's love for endurance sports led him to complete multiple Ironman Triathlons and marathons, including the prestigious Boston Marathon. Locally, he eagerly participated in events such as Ride the Rockies and the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic.
 
David was married to his beloved wife Anna Marie for nearly 69 years. He cherished his role as a father to his four children: William (Bill) Bishop and his wife Michelle, Carolyn Bishop and her husband Kyle Koso, Dianne Milner and her husband Mike, and Tim Bishop and his wife Beth. His eight grandchildren were a source of immense joy, and he always encouraged them to learn new skills, explore their talents and embrace new experiences.
 
In his spare time, Dr. Bishop had a love for letter writing and poetry and he was a prized pie maker. He was a member of the Durango Toastmasters for many years and he found solace in music, playing the guitar and harmonica. His musical talents were an extension of his personality starting the church praise band & serving as member of the choir for over 50 years. Even in his final days, his harmonica remained by his side, a testament to his unwavering spirit.
 
During the last few months of his life, Dr. Bishop resided in Loveland, Colorado near family and leading dementia programs. He became an integral part of the Seven Lakes Memory Care community, spreading joy and becoming a catalyst for fitness among residents. His passing has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of all who knew him. However, the knowledge of his joyful reunion with his beloved wife and other family members in heaven brings solace and comfort.
 
A celebration of Dr. David Bishop's remarkable life will be held on July 17, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at The First Presbyterian Church in Durango.