David Sanders
1952-2024
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of David Sanders, a cherished lifetime member of AAF Nebraska, who passed away on July 30, 2024.
David, known to many as Dave, had a distinguished career at the Omaha World-Herald, where he served as head of research until his retirement in June 2015. Beyond his professional achievements, Dave was a dedicated member of the Omaha Kiwanis Club, the American Advertising Federation Nebraska, and Calvary Christian Church in Bellevue, NE.
Dave will be fondly remembered for his remarkable hospitality and generosity. Whether with friends, family, colleagues, or fellow AAF Nebraska members, Dave’s warmth and kindness left a lasting impression. He delighted in entertaining guests in his home, particularly enjoying baking cookies and watching movies on the big screen. His dinner table settings, complete with stunning centerpieces and delicious meals, could easily rival those of Martha Stewart.
A proud graduate of Omaha Burke High School, Dave’s passion for advertising and research was ignited during his time on the school newspaper staff as the Advertising Manager for the Burke Beat Newspaper. He went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, majoring in Advertising Journalism, with additional studies in English, Psychology, Marketing, and Research Advertising Journalism.
Dave’s commitment to the Omaha Federation of Advertising (now AAF Nebraska) was extraordinary. In 1994-1995, he served as the federation’s president and contributed to every active committee over the years. He also served on the Executive Board of Directors for four years and played a pivotal role in the federation’s 100-Year Anniversary Steering Committee in 2006. Dave’s contributions were recognized when he was honored as the federation’s Ad Pro of the Year in 2000, and he received the federation’s highest honor, the Silver Medal Award, in 2013 during the American Advertising Awards.
In Dave’s memory, AAF Nebraska will be awarding a Meet the Pros conference scholarship to a student from his alma mater, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, this spring. This scholarship will stand as a testament to Dave’s lifelong dedication to the advertising community and his alma mater.
