Photo: Jill Ryan. View full-sized image.
David G. Bird passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026. He is survived by his wife, Paulie, and two sons, David and Robert, their wives and three grandchildren. There will be a private funeral with no public viewing. The family has requested that no cards, flowers or gifts be sent.
Dave grew up in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, area and pursued a career in education. He later moved to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and taught elementary and early childhood education at Millersville University. When he retired, he was awarded the distinguished title of Professor Emeritus of Elementary and Early Childhood Education.
Most ACEers’ first encounter with Dave was probably at event registrations in his capacity as registration director from 2003 to 2008. He had previously assisted his predecessor, Mark Cole, at several events before assuming that role himself. He was always smiling and enjoyed interacting with the members. He was also ACE’s correspondence coordinator prior to 2003.
My wife, Maggie, and I first met Dave in the line for Hypersonic XLC at the 2001 Media Day at King’s Dominion. We waited three and one-half hours for one ride and spent the time in line talking with Dave and his son. I remember two teenagers in line behind us with similar “VIP” tickets. When Dave asked how they got them, one replied, “Some dude in a bar was giving them out last week!”
Maggie became Dave’s unofficial assistant before eventually taking over the registration director position in 2008. Along with Dave’s regular group of local ACE volunteers, we spent many afternoons in the Bird’s basement assembling event registration packets.
Dave continued to help both Maggie and Steve Smith during their later tenures as registration director by designing and printing event name badges. Dave was a perfectionist, insisting on mailing new printed badges after the event to correct any errors. He also proofread event fliers, press releases and plaque texts as well as proofreading ACE's publications. In addition, he could be found at most events helping with anything that needed to be done.
Dave’s years of dedication to ACE resulted in his being named an honorary member in 2010. He was also selected as the recipient of the Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, Inc. Manufacturer’s Award (Spirit of ACE) in 2011.
In addition to his ACE activities, Dave loved Drum Corps. He supported and volunteered with the DCI Allentown Cadets for many years and traveled to see them perform.
Unfortunately, Dave’s health prevented him from attending any ACE events in recent years. His enduring popularity was demonstrated by the number of ACE members asking about him during the 2026 Spring Conference and at Coaster Con 48.
Whether you knew him as Dave, Mr. Bird, Dr. Bird or “the Badge Man,” he will be sorely missed.
— Dave Altman, ACE Western Pennsylvania Assistant Regional Representative
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