David Paul Nezat

July 2, 1965 – August 27, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David Paul Nezat. Born July 2, 1965, in Eunice, Louisiana, Dave was the third of five boys born to James Lowell Dean and Deanna Joy Soileau Nezat.

A gifted athlete, Dave graduated from St. Edmunds High School in 1984, where he excelled in football, baseball, and track. He attended the University of Southwestern Louisiana on a baseball scholarship before pursuing a career in business. Over the years, Dave lived in Louisiana, Texas, and Colorado, following opportunities and adventures that reflected his restless and creative spirit.

While he found success as a business owner, music was Dave’s true lifeblood. A self-taught drummer, he began with a pair of sticks on pillows as a child and went on to play with countless musicians, from local talents to Grammy winners. Most notably, he shared his gifts with the Bodhisattva Band in Fort Collins, Colorado where he met and married the mother of his children. Music was not only his craft but his way of connecting with others—bringing joy, rhythm, and joie de vivre wherever he played. Known for his larger-than-life personality, he was equally a dreamer and a doer, always eager to share stories, laughter, food, and the Cajun spirit he carried with him.

Above all, Dave cherished his role as father to his two children, Caleb Isaac Nezat and Katrina Elizabeth Nezat of Fort Collins, Colorado. His love for them was evident in his stories, and his pride, and they are the greatest legacy of his life, carrying forward his creativity and spirit.

Dave is survived by his children; his brothers Dennis Nezat of Opelousas, Kenneth Nezat (Joni) of Youngsville, Chad Nezat (Christine Leblanc) of Eunice, and Ron Nezat (Michelle) of Opelousas; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends from every season of his life. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Dave will be remembered for his rhythm, his warmth, and the way he brought people together, whether on a stage, around a table, or through a simple conversation. His music lives on in the hearts of all who knows him.

Words of Comfort to the family may be expressed at www.sibillefuneralhomes.com. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Sibille Funeral Home of Opelousas.