Former Apache Junction Councilmember David Waldron dies at 77

The City of Apache Junction joins family, friends and community members in mourning the passing of longtime public servant and former City Councilmember David “Dave” Waldron, who died Sept. 5 at the age of 77.

For decades, Waldron dedicated himself to serving Apache Junction and the greater Pinal County region. His service to the city included time on the Apache Junction Planning and Zoning Commission and multiple terms as a member of the Apache Junction City Council, according to a release.

His commitment to public service extended well beyond City Hall. Waldron represented Apache Junction and the region through numerous organizations and leadership roles, including serving as chair of the Pinal Regional Transportation Authority and in leadership with Central Arizona Governments. He also served as chairman of Apache Junction Community Development Corp. and was a longtime advocate for veterans and the community.

“Dave gave so much of himself to Apache Junction, and our community is better because of it,” Mayor Chip Wilson said in the release. “He cared deeply about this city and the people who call it home. Whether he was sitting at the council dais, working on transportation issues that would shape our region for generations, supporting our veterans or simply lending a hand where it was needed, Dave showed what public service is supposed to look like.”

Waldron’s life of service began long before his involvement in local government. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, he served from 1968 to 1972, including tours in Vietnam, Okinawa and California. That commitment to fellow veterans remained an important part of his life, as he served for many years as chairman of Apache Junction’s Veterans Day Parade and was involved with the Marine Corps League, Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion.

In recognition of Waldron’s many years of service and lasting contributions to Apache Junction, Mayor Wilson will order flags at city facilities lowered to half-staff for one week in his honor. Details regarding the dates of the observance will be announced once finalized.

City flags will also be lowered from sunrise to sunset on Friday, Nov. 27, the day of Waldron’s funeral services, as a final tribute to his service to the community and country.

Details regarding funeral services and the city’s flag observance will be shared as they become available.