Dave Walton Obituary, Cause of Death – Nebraska Wrestling Community Mourns

OMAHA, Neb. — Nebraska wrestling is mourning the reported passing of Dave Walton, a longtime wrestling official and former two-time state champion whose connection to the sport spanned generations.

Family, friends, athletes, coaches, officials, and wrestling communities across Nebraska are remembering Walton, particularly in Omaha, where his wrestling journey began.

To those who knew him, Dave was affectionately known as “the mayor of wrestling town,” a nickname reflecting his longstanding presence and dedication to Nebraska wrestling.

Remembering Dave Walton

Dave’s wrestling career began at Westside High School in Omaha, where he became a two-time state champion and was part of the school’s 1976 state championship team.

He later continued his wrestling career at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, maintaining his connection to the sport beyond his high school years.

Walton eventually became widely recognized for decades of service as a Nebraska wrestling official. His work took him to mats throughout the state, where he officiated competitions and became a familiar presence to generations of wrestlers, coaches, families, and fellow officials.

For many within Nebraska wrestling, Dave was more than an official. He was a recognizable and trusted figure whose own experience as a competitor gave him a special connection to the athletes he encountered throughout his years in the sport.

Cause of Death

Specific information regarding Dave Walton’s cause of death and circumstances surrounding his passing has not been provided in the information available.

As his family and friends grieve, members of the Nebraska wrestling community are being asked to keep them in their thoughts and prayers.

A Lasting Wrestling Legacy

Dave’s absence will be deeply felt throughout Nebraska wrestling, particularly when the next season begins and athletes, coaches, and officials gather on the mats he spent so many years around.

The tournaments and competitions that once included him will now carry memories of a longtime wrestler and official who devoted much of his life to the sport.

His legacy will continue through the athletes he encountered, the competitions he officiated, and the generations of Nebraska wrestlers who knew him.

May Dave Walton rest in peace, and may his family, friends, and the entire Nebraska wrestling community find comfort in the memories and lasting legacy he leaves behind.