David Foster Wallace Age at Death
David Foster Wallace was 46 years old when he died on September 12, 2008. His death was widely reported by major outlets, and public records confirm the age and cause. The loss was noted in literary and financial media because of his influence on longform nonfiction and publishing business models read more.
Wallace was born on February 21, 1962, in Ithaca, New York. Public biographies, university archives, and publisher records consistently list this birth date. At the time of his death, he had completed major novels and essays that continue to shape contemporary fiction and nonfiction read more.
Timeline of Key Dates in Wallace's Life
Birth and Early Career
Wallace grew up in Champaign-Urbana, Illinois, and attended Amherst College before enrolling at the University of Arizona. He published his first novel, "The Broom of the System," in 1987 at age 25, and his academic work on modal logic informed his later writing style read more.
Peak Recognition and Later Writing
His 1996 novel "Infinite Jest" brought widespread attention, and he became a prominent voice in literary journalism. Wallace taught at Illinois State University and Pomona College, and his essays on consumer culture and entertainment were cited in business and media analysis read more.
Public Records and Cause of Death
Medical and Biographical Details
Public records and news reports state that Wallace died by suicide in Claremont, California. Toxicology reports and coroner findings were consistent with depression and prescription drug use. His age at death, 46, is listed in death certificates and obituaries published by major newspapers and literary organizations.
Legacy and Ongoing Influence
Wallace's work remains influential in discussions of attention, consumerism, and narrative form. Publishers, universities, and media companies continue to reference his essays and novels in courses, articles, and business case studies about longform content and audience engagement.
Key Facts at a Glance
David Foster Wallace died at age 46 on September 12, 2008. His birth date, death date, and cause of death are documented in public records and verified by multiple trusted sources. The combination of his age, literary output, and cultural impact makes his death a frequently referenced case in publishing and media history.