David Ibsen

Dr. David Ibsen, 93, of North Little Rock, Arkansas, died Saturday, July 5, 2014, in his home surrounded by his family. He was born November 27, 1920 in Glen Lyon, Pennsylvania. After receiving a doctorate in veterinary medicine from the University of Pennsylvania in 1944, Dr. Ibsen settled in Little Rock. He was appointed State Veterinarian in 1957, a post at which he served for 20 years. Dr. Ibsen then joined the University of Arkansas, through the Cooperative Extension Service. After five years as the agricultural chemicals specialist, Dr. Ibsen returned to his area of expertise as Extension Veterinarian, a post he held until 1981. He served as both Secretary and President of the Arkansas Veterinary Medical Association. He was on the Board of Governors of the Arkansas Livestock Exposition, Secretary of the Board of Veterinary Examiners from 1957-1963, a member of the American Veterinary Medicine Association, President of the National Assembly of Livestock Sanitary Association, and voted veterinarian of the year in 1968. Dr. Ibsen served as a Captain in the US Armed Forces from 1939-1945, and, as a reservist, was called again to active duty from 1951-1952, achieving the rank of Major. Dr. Ibsen is survived by his wife of 66 years, Wanda Pratt Ibsen. He is lovingly remembered by his children, Michael Ibsen and Michelle Ibsen Trimble (Grady); grandchildren, Dane Ibsen (Erica), Sara Ibsen Malek Compani (Kody), and Preston Trimble (Lauren); as well as 5 great grandchildren. Dr. Ibsen will be honored by a private service of remembrance. Memorial donations may be made to Heifer Project International. www.arkansasfuneralcare.com.