“One of the things I like best about what I do is the number of lives I touch,” said David Trout, his blue eyes alive with light. “I enjoy talking to people, listening to their ideas and creating a work of art that will be around for generations. This is truly a responsibility both to nature and our clients for creating such an important piece in someone’s life and helping them immortalize a piece of family history.” As one of the founding partners of Coffin & Trout Fine Jewellers, David had a wonderful opportunity to touch many people’s lives. Most would agree their lives are better having known him.
As an avid athlete, David enjoyed many sports including biking, golf, skiing and hiking. His true passion, however, was design. This excitement and commitment to the art helped earn him numerous national and international design awards. His innovative Pagoda ring, featured in Coffin & Trout’s Masterpiece Collection, is on display at the Smithsonian in Washington D.C. This ring was donated as a tribute to David, his passion and artistic innovation. David’s infectious smile, quick wit and genuine manner were the reasons that people were drawn to him. His charm and honesty were why you stayed.
David’s training began at an early age with his father, Marty Trout, who decided that stained glass making would be the key to keeping a strong connection with his son. With the support of his mother, Barbara, father and son approached the owner of the local jewelry store in Rock Island, Illinois about selling their artwork. Not only did the owner agree, he eventually offered the young artist an apprenticeship servicing watches. At the age of 13, David began his entry into the jewelry business. The emerging designer wore many hats in the industry before finally meeting his business partner, Randy Coffin, in 1979. They quickly became friends and the creative spark was lit. Making unique, beautiful and functional jewelry, while offering unbeatable customer service was the foundation for their company and earned them the respect of their customers and colleagues. David Trout’s spirit and legacy will live on in Coffin & Trout Fine Jewellers and in all of the family and friends he left behind.
David was very active in supporting the community that has given him and his business partner so much. Always helping with one charity or another, David’s most active and recent role was as the President of Phoenix Suns Charities. He was passionate about the Phoenix Suns and the work they do for children and families in Arizona. His charitable work and dedication to our community will be missed. But most of all, Dave, you will be missed.
Reflection from Randy Coffin
Thirty years and looking back, I realize how lucky I am that destiny brought Dave Trout into my life. I was always impressed at what a free spirit he was. If I took away anything from our relationship, it is to live life to the fullest each and every day and take time to enjoy all the things that this world has to offer. I can tell you that he lived his whole life that way; always looking forward to the next grand adventure. That was true whether it involved a beautiful colored gemstone or a trip to Africa or Europe.
I am forever grateful to have had all those years to share with him, as a great friend and business partner. He made an incredible contribution to our business, but moreover to my life.
His talent, fun loving personality and friendship are sorely missed. What he left behind that was, and is, Coffin & Trout Fine Jewellers will continue on, for that is the greatest way I know to honor him and his legacy.