A 25-YEAR-OLD skydiver from Newnham has died after his parachute failed to launch during a jump in the French Alps.
Professional wingsuit jumper David Reader was taking part in a BASE jump in the mountains near Sallanches when he collided with the ground without deploying his parachute on August 7.
He suffered a severe head injury and was flown by helicopter in a coma to Sallanches before being transferred to a hospital in Annecy.
Domi Kiger, his girlfriend, said: “He had a few body injuries, but the most serious one was a very severe head trauma. I spent that first night with him in his room, holding his hand, talking to him, wishing for a miracle.
“The miracle didn’t happen.”
David was declared brain dead on August 8 at 5.30pm local time. His organs were donated to save lives.
Miss Kiger added: “Dave was the most incredible human being I ever met.
“The type you don’t necessarily notice straight away, the best type in my eyes.
“He was kind, humble, gentle, incredibly smart, talented in absolutely everything he put his mind into. Bright in so many ways.
“He was quiet and reserved but so warm, loving and fun to those who took the time to get to know him. He was wise beyond his years.
“He was ambitious in a good way, wanting to make a difference in the flying industry, and make the world a better place. I know he would have.”
David, who went to the former Whitecross School in Lydney, was a professional windtunnel instructor living and working in Norway.
His brother Dickon said: “I haven’t just lost a brother, I have lost a role model who I looked up to to lead the way.
“He was always so ambitious, wanted to better himself and find ways of improving and pushing the boundaries.
“He wanted to, and did enhance the lives of everyone around him. He always believed in me, supported me and will leave a huge gap in my life.
“Rest in peace, you will never be forgotten.”
The Forester’s sports reporter Liam Ryder, who went to Wyedean School and played basketball with David in the Forest of Dean team, said: “There was always with a smile on his face.
“You could tell from his lifestyle that he was always seeking an adventure.
“He was a very fun loving guy. I don’t know anyone who has a bad word to say about him.
“The outpouring of emotion and positive memories of him shows how many lives he touched.”