““I’d rather die while I’m living than live while I’m dead. Some of it’s magic and some of it’s tragic but I had a good life all the way” -Jimmy Buffett
Life story
Remembering David:
The famous old adage, he would give you the shirt off his back, actually did apply to Dave. He was always willing to help even when he couldn’t. He had an infectious smile and a true heart of gold. Dave was the definition of a friend. He found no challenge too great for a friend or acquaintance and was never constrained by distance or time. Always there and readily able to lend a hand.
The hundreds of emails expressing the great sorrow his friends feel at his passing, and their retelling of the joyful experiences each of them had with him is a testament to what a wonderful person he was. Most of these experiences revolved around his tennis interactions. Dave gave his all so all could play tennis, the game he loved so much. He captained several teams simultaneously, and while he passionately wanted his teams to win, he certainly could enjoy reliving and laughing about the losses.
In addition to tennis, Dave was a die-hard Yankee fan. While always cheering on the Yankees, he could still be consoling to the many broken-hearted Oriole’s fans on his teams. The New York Yankee’s have lost their biggest fan. Dave will have to watch their games now from above.
A Pennsylvanian by birth, he could almost convince you that Allentown was the San Francisco of the East, and that Penn State only lost football games because of bad officiating. The joy he brought to our hearts can’t be replaced. Now gone, we look back to remember that we were all blessed by his presence and left with the legacy of a man we will never forget.
I started knowing Dave back in 2009 - I was beginning to play USTA tennis, and he captained one of my first teams. He was an amazing captain, so determined and dedicated, and this matched my own competitive spirit. I was on many of his teams over the next 13 years, and thanks to his leadership, our teams made it to two districts, seven sectionals (men and mixed), and one nationals. It was a great decade of tennis, and his vigorous captaining continues to inspire me as I strive to lead the 55+ and 65+ teams that he started. Thanks, Dave!
We always loved your visits to Altoona, especially with Aunt Sue. Texas Hot Dogs, Palmino’s Pizza, and Meadows Ice Cream. Nothing better. So thankful for you and all you did to help us with Jack. I know you are up there teaching him football, basketball, and tennis and what good music is all about. We miss you. 💛
Jamie BullardWe met Dave through his wife Susan, she lived down the street from my husband. We shared a love of music and went on a music cruise with Dave and Sue. Dave and my husband shared a love of horse racing. We went to a tennis tournament (Sue played and Dave managed) in Arizona. We learned a lot about tennis. We always had a good time.
