Dave Sitton came to Tucson four decades ago to play baseball at the University of Arizona – and he stayed, giving back to his adopted hometown in a way that few others have.

Many knew Dave as the longtime voice of UA sports – but he was so much more than that as he became deeply involved in our community. He was among the first to step forward and offer his time and his talents to nonprofit organizations that were struggling. Dave was heavily involved in sports at all levels – but he also was a great music lover and worked tirelessly to ensure the Tucson Pops remains a vibrant part of the Tucson scene.

In the past year, I have been working closely with Dave and others who are dedicated to strengthening our military installations and supporting our men and women in uniform in Southern Arizona. Dave was a true patriot who understood the importance of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Fort Huachuca and the 162nd Fighter Wing of the Arizona National Guard to our national security and our local economy.

Dave Sitton was a friend and a colleague. He left enormous footprints on the Tucson community and will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.