Family and friends of the late Dave Sitton recounted numerous stories of his life in McKale Center Sunday during his memorial service. For years, Sitton’s voice entertained Wildcat fans through his broadcasts of Arizona football and basketball games.
Sitton, 58, unexpectedly died last Monday. Speakers included Athletic Director Greg Byrne and one of Sitton’s broadcast partners, Bob Elliott.
“We liked to hear people say that they could feel our chemistry through the broadcast. That chemistry started 40 years ago across the way, as we were both freshman at the U of A together,” Elliot said. “Partner, you left good vibrations with all of us. We look forward to meeting you again. Love you, partner.”
Master of ceremonies and Sitton’s protege, Sean Mooney, joked how the best person to emcee the memorial would have been Sitton himself as his personality was naturally entertaining.
“I’m honored to be the emcee of this event,” Mooney said. “But let’s be honest, who would want to emcee an event like this more than Dave Sitton?”
Sitton served as the UA men’s rugby coach for 35 years and a telecaster for UA basketball and football games for 22 years. He also served as a Congressional candidate in 2002 and was well-known for his charity involvement around town.
A slideshow of Sitton’s life played throughout the ceremony. Multiple videos of Sitton singing and dancing at events drew applause and laughter.
Toward the end of the service, Sitton’s sister Margie, and his daughter’s Olivia and Blakeney, spoke about Sitton’s character and his positive impact.
“We appreciate all that you’ve shared with us tonight, reminding us of everything he did and how he positively impacted so many lives,” Margie Sitton said.
Editor’s note: Medical examiners recently confirmed that Dave Sitton died from a blood clot.