David P. Van Zanten

David P. Van Zanten, 54, passed away August 5, 2026 at Albany Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Corning, New York on October 16, 1971 to parents John and Katie Van Zanten. He is also survived by his brother Ted Van Zanten.

David, a 1989 graduate of Horseheads (NY) High School, was a Mark Twain scholar and Presidential Academic Fitness Award honoree.

David graduated Cum Laude from Bucknell University (1993) with a B.S. degree in Civil Engineering. He was elected to Tau Beta Pi, the oldest national engineering honor society.

Based in Albany, David enjoyed his entire 25-year career with the New York State Department of Transportation. Early years were spent in the Structure Design Bureau. David’s proud legacy will live on in his 10 existing bridges spanning waterways and highways across New York State. Later years in the Structure Management Bureau focused on bridge data collection and reports leading to bridge safety.

David was a member of two Toastmasters International Clubs: Speakeasy at NYSDOT and Capital Toastmasters. He loved his Friday AM volunteer work at the Regional Food Bank. David served many years as chair of the Sunday tennis league for Singles Outreach.

A private service for family members will be held at a later date.