David Temple II, 64, former student ombudsman at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, died June 18.
Temple served as a student ombudsman in Student Affairs (now Student Life) from August 1992 through March 1996. In that role, he assisted students in resolving concerns and navigating university processes with compassion, fairness and respect.
Born Jan. 5, 1962, in Pender, Nebraska, Temple was raised in Pender, Ainsworth and Fremont. An Eagle Scout, he developed an early love of animals, nature and the outdoors.
After graduating from high school in 1980, Temple enrolled at the University of Kansas with plans to study large-animal veterinary medicine. A 1982 automobile accident resulted in a spinal cord injury that left him a quadriplegic. Rather than defining his life, the experience strengthened his enduring optimism and commitment to living each day fully.
Temple later earned a bachelor's degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Before joining the university, he served as a human rights commissioner with the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission. Following his service as student ombudsman, he retired after a career dedicated to public service and advocacy.
Known for his warm smile, engaging personality and genuine interest in others, Temple often greeted others with the words, “Hello, how are you? It’s a beautiful day.” Friends and family remember his enthusiasm for conversations about the weather, his trucks, his dogs, home improvement projects and countless future plans. He enjoyed fostering dogs, auto racing, music and spending time with family and friends.
Temple was preceded in death by his parents, David W. Temple and Marzee (Temple) Conway.
He is survived by his sisters, Gina Rozanek, Lana Temple-Plotz (Brad), and Leigh Temple-Nanson (Bill); stepparents Jean Castillo and Ian Conway; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and his chosen family, Brian Hale, Jen Wagner and Rory Pickel.
A celebration of life will be 1 to 3 p.m. Aug. 2 at the Lincoln Firefighters Reception Hall, 241 Victory Lane. Memorials may be directed to the Grace Space or Capital Humane Society.
Memories and condolences can be submitted here.
