David Helburn Sachs (b. January 26, 1953, Newport News, VA), only child of Benjamin and Dorothy Sachs, passed peacefully on September 17, 2022 in Manhattan, KS.
David grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio and attended Stetson University (Bachelor of Science, Economics, 1974) on a golf scholarship and Rice University (Master of Architecture, 1977) before earning his Doctorate of Architecture at the University of Michigan (1986). He brought almost a decade of private practice experience with him when he joined the Kansas State University College of Architecture, Planning & Design faculty in 1988.
As a Professor of Architecture in the College of Architecture Planning and Design, David spent 30 years teaching generations of students the principles of architectural design and history. He served the Department of Architecture as Director of the Kansas City Academic Program (1989-95), Associate Department Head (2000-04), Department Head (2004-07), Regnier Distinguished Faculty Chair (2011-13) and as the Director of the College’s PhD program (2014-18). His published works include books on Louisiana Architect A. Hays Town and Guide to Kansas Architecture, and the Kansas section of Archipedia, the online guide to American architecture, as well as numerous articles and book reviews.
In addition to his academic work, David was a dedicated steward and proponent of Kansas architecture, serving as President of the Flint Hills Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (2000; 2006), on the State Historic Sites Review Board, and on the State Building Advisory Commission. David was also a longtime Southeastern Society of Architectural Historians member and Secretary (2002-18), presenting at and attending nearly every yearly conference before hosting the 2018 conference in Manhattan.
An avid world traveler, David shared his passion with Kansas State students by teaching study abroad programs in Italy. At home he found joy in regular games of golf, hosting social events for students and faculty members, walking his dogs, and spending time with his wife and children.
David is survived by his wife Rebecca Stark and his children Ann Forsman Sachs (Johan) (Stockholm, Sweden), Benjamin Stark-Sachs (Emporia, KS), and Jonathan Stark-Sachs (Bristol, RI).
A memorial service will be held Wednesday, September 28 at 2:00 pm at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Manhattan. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Kansas State University Foundation for the College of Architecture, Planning & Design or the Alzheimer’s Association. Contributions may be left in care of the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.