 |
| Font Size: + Larger | - Smaller |
 |
||||
 |
||||
 |
||||
 |
||||
 |
||||
 |
||||
 |
||||
 |
||||
 |
||||
 |
||||
 |
||||
 |
||||
 |
||||
 |
||||
 |
||||
 |
||||
 |
||||
|
| IN MEMORIAM |
David Weiss (2009) David Weiss, Park Ranger and Environmental Educator / Outreach Specialist at Bonneville Lock and Dam passed away unexpectedly in his home. David was loved by all for his sense of humor and admired for his dedication as an interpreter and environmental educator.After graduating from Evergreen State University in Washington, David spent most of his career with the Corps of Engineers at Bonneville Lock and Dam on the Columbia River. He also worked for the Corps at the Bay Model in Sausalito, California and for the U.S.D.A. Forest Service as an interpreter in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. In his “spare time” David served on the Board of Directors of the Columbia Gorge Ecology Institute and was active in a program that provided environmental education for schools in the Columbia River Gorge. David also was part of a marimba band and played guitar as well. When he was not playing music you could often find him attending a concert and dancing. David also joined a local theater group and enjoyed acting in plays. David was an accomplished skier, learning as a child while his family lived at Cooper Spur on Mount Hood. He also loved to hike, ride his bike, and paddle his kayak. David was loved and appreciated by his co-workers for his sense of humor, his willingness to help and for his dedication. He could handle any audience. He used to say that when the bureaucratic tasks at work got to him, giving an interpretive program improved his mood and got him back where he needed to be. He loved his work. One of the emails we received during the last day said this, “In 2006 we traveled to Oregon. Katie was 2+ at the time and we worked our way into the (visitor center office). Katie was tired and scared and started to cry. David got down on his knees at a comfortable distance and offered her a small soccer ball with a Corps water safety message on it. It took some time, but he cracked her shell and had her smiling AND he even managed to get the message across! We still have the ball and Katie remembers David by name and the event in which she got that ball. I imagine there are other people out there that can offer numerous similar stories...a testament to his character.” There certainly are…. Among other accomplishments, David received the 2007 Hiram M. Chittenden Award for Interpretive Excellence. This is the highest award offered by the Corps for excellence in interpretation. He was a master at connecting people to their world. He was a member of NAI for many years. He also lived what he preached, driving a hybrid car and living simply. David’s social and professional network was very widespread. I’m sure everyone will miss him terribly. David’s family requests that donations be made in his name to: Columbia Gorge Ecology Institute P.O. Box 1104, Hood River Oregon 97031. They can also be reached by phone at 541-387-2274. |
| I just read in the Lincoln High School news that David had died. It's been so long but I can still hear his voice and remember his kind spirit. Seeing pictures and reading more makes me happy to know what a great life, family and friends he had as an adult. Shows that he had a real spark for me to remember him from so long ago. My deepest condolences to those who were lucky to know him as an adult. Sincerely, Saya Moriyasu |
| Wow-I just heard the news-what a shock it was to hear of David's passing. Like so many of the others above, I too had the privilege and pleasure of being associated with Dave at Bonneville Dam for four years where he was my primary inspiration and mentor in the Interpretation Office. Having moved on to California State Parks, I wrote a letter of appreciation to the Interpretation Staff at Bonneville, particularly expressing heartfelt thanks to my mentor, teacher and beloved friend there, David Weiss. He was not there to hear my praise and heartfelt appreciation for him. So here it is David, I know you're out there and this message will reach you-Thank-you man from the depths of my heart, may you continue to blessed with your incredible disposition, your indefatiguable sense of humor and honor and may you continue to be a blessing and inspiration to us all still down here under the influence of gravity on this most marvelous of the planets. See you around and do take care..... Very sincerely, your friend, Michael Haas |
| David cared deeply about making the world a better place, and being a good person. He packed so much into the time he was here, and I will really miss the energy and zing! of doing programs and workshops with him. He inspired me to make the jump from substitute teacher to Park Ranger, got me facilitating Project Learning Tree and other EE events, and in return, I got him to share his wonderful, fun, hands-on learning with Master Gardeners who raved about him for weeks afterwards. It's taking 4 people to split up all the outreach duties he had scheduled for the year, and that's not counting his devotion to places like the Gorge Ecology Institute. We miss him, and he continues to be an inspiration to us all. Come sit on the bench by the tree his family and friends planted for him, look for him in the wind, in the mountains, in the trees and the river, and in the ideas and ideals he planted in our hearts. I stumbled across the following quote from David and it really encapsulates how he felt; a glimpse into his passion for environmental earth education, and the field of interpretation, and how his creativity and joy flowed naturally from deep wellsprings. -sj David wrote this about being an Interpreter/ Environmental Educator on NPR's "Speaking of Faith; Discovering Where We Live: Reimagining Environmentalism": (follow the link at the bottom to get the podcast) The Whole Is Greater Than Its Parts (January 1, 2007) "I am blessed to live and work in the Columbia River Gorge where I work as a park ranger at Bonneville Lock & Dam. I work with an organization that promotes learning about our local ecosystems and practicing good stewardship. Some might question my practicing environmentalism while working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at a hydroelectric dam on a river with endangered salmon. My job as a park ranger allows me to help people explore and learn about the significance of the Columbia River and the impact of human activity on the river environment. At the dam, I can show people the salmon swimming up the river and tell the stories of their incredible lives." "The Columbia Gorge Ecology Institute is a wonderful organization that gets into the schools and teaches the science of ecology in both fun and interactive ways. I feel our most important goal is to instill in the student a sense of wonder about what they can find in the forests in their own back yard. By helping each other explore the wonders of this world we may gain the knowledge and appreciation needed to preserve it for all life." "I grew up in a Methodist Church. The church and many members are very supportive of environmental and social issues. These days because of work schedules and where I now live I am not very active in the church. My spiritual path has been influenced by my studies and work learning about biology, ecology, and natural history. I remember working at a children's museum where we could see the bees inside a bee hive. I learned that bees communicate with each other through dance. One bee can tell others where it got pollen by moving in certain ways (figure eights etc.). That, and other observations have shown me how truly miraculous creation is. When I look closely I am convinced the whole is much greater than just the sum of its parts. That whole, including you and me, is all a part of God." -David Weiss Carson, WA (Listens to SOF OnDemand) hear the podcast/program (radio on demand) http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/programs/discoveringwherewelive/index.shtml quotes/comments from listeners: http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/programs/discoveringwherewelive/reflections.shtml#davidweiss Susan James |
| I just recently left Bonneville as a student employee in September 2008, but David and his unique and fun humor never left me. When I was learning the ropes as a rookie David was the first ranger i saw give a tour and I was extremely impressed. He was incredibly knowledgeable while integrating humor, making everyone smile and have fun. I learned from everyone there, but I think David influenced me the most. In the office, David and I would send zingers back and forth trying to entertain the sometimes monotonous activities we performed. I knew that when I worked with David that I was gonna laugh that day. I used to tease him about being the best ranger in all of the Army Corps, but it really was true. His dedication to being an interpretive ranger was unprecedented. Although I only worked with him for a short time, David helped me to be a better guide than could have imagined. Thank you David; you will be missed. Brad Hamel |
You Tube... In Heaven There is no beer by the Donut Kings and various other musicians. Bye, Dave |
| David David! David! I miss you! The email subject line read, "Bonneville employee passes"! I wondered if I knew the "employee." With horror, I read your name. Lying peacefully in your bed, Closed your eyes and never woke. Sickness came years before. Heart medicine was prescribed. You left us saddened and shocked. We depended on you too much. You captured all audiences' hearts With your captivating descriptions Both natural and managed environments You inspired each of us. David, David you showed us how To tell a complex story To explain how electrons' Can dance from copper atom to copper atom. To illustrate how electricity can gush from water's flow. David! David I miss you! You left us shocked. You inspired each of us. Children were mesmerized. All of us were captivated! Jane Jackson, Park Ranger Bonneville Lock & Dam |
| The Corps of Engineers has lost a true professional and a wonderful caring friend. I have had the opportunity of working with David over the last few years on some education collaboration projects with the Bonneville Power Administration. David was my "go to" person and I always enjoyed working with him. We recently completed the first of eight videos on the value of the Columbia River for our education website. We started with hydro and I knew from the start that David would be our subject matter expert. We wanted it to be upbeat, a little querky and fun and David came through for us. We spent a whole day with him at Bonneville Dam and I will never forget it. He had a gift with people and you could tell that he loved his job! We are still going to use the video on our website when the project is complete and we will add a nice tribute to David at the end. I already miss him. Cheri Benson |
| I have been following David my Corps entire career. He was the Education Program Coordinator at the San Francisco Bay Model, and had just depaerted headed back to Washington when I had the pleasure of taking over the educational programs David had implemented. I was told that if I ever had a chance to say hi to him, he would be the guy with the ponytail and the big smile. I worked three years at the Bay Model and then had the good fortune to get a job at Bonneville Bam. Sure enough when I met David he had a ponytail and one of the warmest smiles of anyone I had ever met. He was always looking for oppertunities to bring environmental education to adults and kids and what made it so special was the energy and enthusiasim in displayed each and every time he did a program. David believed in what he was doing and it shined through like the sun on a wonderful summer day. I miss his smile most of all! Ron McDonald |
| I've had the pleasure of seeing David from time to time here at the Bonneville Project Office and each time I would see him, he always had a sweet disposition, always smiling, always friendly, always willing to help. He has such a great following and has affected so many people, now it's our job to pay it forward, for him. Kim Ostler |
| David was a friend and somebody I learned from. As I read what others have written about him, I remember him at his best. He brought joy to many people and always seemed to give of himself just a little more than what you expected. David impressed me with his wit and his professionalism. One thing that I'll always remember is that he sang me a song on the last day worked at Bonneville. It was quirky in a good and fun way...I'll miss that ability he had to cast away norms and just be himself regardless of circumstances. He was an original and he was refreshing. The best storytellers know that a piece of their story is always taken and kept by the ones that hear it. That is a gift that David left so many people whose lives he touched. Jonathan Russo |
| I met David while working at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center. Staff members welcomed him by taking him out to the Wind Seeker. He said that it was his dream job that he got to help inform visitors about the Gorge about its many wonders. It was inspiring to see the passion of a true educator. He had such an ease with people- not just when he was working, but on a personal level no matter what the situation. His demeanor was amazing. I truly confess that I am a better person for have known David for the past 10 years. I witnessed many of the things that he had to overcome. He had such a positive attitude that it seemed that he could not be down, or if he was knocked down he would not be down for long. I usually let old friendships slip away once I move away from them. It was not so with David. David made sure that he dropped in on me when driving past Yakima or he would call about something that he is doing or a concert that I should drive down to Hood River or Portland to see with him. He dedicated his life to things that he believed in- not only in his professional life, but his personal life (especially for the environment, music and friends). It was great going to concerts with him and working with him at the Yakima Folklife Festival. For musicians that he really enjoyed, he would always be the last one to stop clapping (along with the occasional whoooh!). When my daughters were born I made sure that they got to meet my good friend David Weiss. I always made sure that I would drop into see him at Bonneville Dam or his home near Carson to just have a little talk or play a song. I will never forget him. Mike Siebol |
| David was, quite literally, a big hearted guy. He touched us all with a great deal of love and fun. I found this passage in the ThichNat Hanh book.._ Peace is Every Step. And though I am not sure of David's spiritual base I think this is most appropriate for all who will miss him dearly. "One day, in the village where I live, we lost a very close friend...He had a heart attack and died in the night. In the morning we learned of his passing. He was such a gracious person, and he gave us a lot of joy every time we spent a few minutes with him. We felt that he was joy and peace itself. The morning that we found out about his death, we regretted very much that we had not spent more time with him." David left us far too soon and this loss feels unbearable right now. I'm sure he would want us to continue loving music, reading, bird song, theater and children. He was truly a wonderful being in every way... Take care of his gorge when you visit. Susan |
| As so many have noted, David was exceptional in how he lived his life, how he connected with people--connecting people with the environment. I have known and worked around David for 15+ years. I am not going to claim to be his close associate, but I have always admired and respected his prfessionalism and most of all his humanity which came through in all he did. There is a hole as large as the Columbia Gorge in many hearts. david has left us with enough memories to fill that hole many times over. If we can all be half what David has been to others he touched.... We will all be together again someday. peace. Tim DeLano |
| I met David back in the 1990's when we were both young federal employees trying to change the world. David knew the secret all along which was to make meaningful connections with people and to open their minds to possibilities. He was a sweet giving man, a true appreciator of the natural world, and someone who could find humor in most of what the world had to offer. My heart goes out to his family. He will be missed. Gala Miller |
| Since David did not show up for work two weeks ago I've noticed a big change in our office. It is not as much fun as it used to be. I don't get to hear those one-liners or commentaries on life that brought smiles to our faces. I expected to feel sad and feel the void but everything now seems out of balance. We just had a meeting in which several of us tried to figure out how we would cover all of the outreach events that David scheduled between now and summer. As usual, he had an ambitious schedule. He would often do environmental education activities in the community or work with Elderhostel groups on his "weekends" which were rarely on the weekends. One important activity is coming and we know David will be there with us in spirit. His family has scheduled a Celebration of David's Life at the Bonneville Lock and Dam Auditorium on Saturday, 28 March at 1:30 p.m. There will be food, drinks, music and, of course, David stories. Everyone is welcome. If you can't make it, do something good for your local river that day. Pat Barry |
| I've had the privilege of knowing David for 15 years, and during the time he has worked at Bonneville Dam, I have been his coworker. But David was far more than a coworker. He was one of my dearest friends. Words cannot express the sense of loss I feel at his passing. It is so true, as many others have expressed, that David was the finest example of a professional in the natural resource field who went the extra mile to carry out his work and mission. But David was also one of the finest human beings I have ever known. He was larger than life and embraced it fully no matter the circumstances. People were his business. There seemed no limit to his kindness and compassion for others, as well as his warmth and caring. He always seemed to place the needs of others above his own needs. He loved to make people feel good about themselves, build up their confidence, help them laugh and find the humor in life's situations. He was quick to find the good in people and focused on the positive. David was a wonderful listener too. He appreciated beautiful things, whether it was art, music, a wonderful dance or a gorgeous flower. He was also a very brave man in the face of trouble or adversity. I cherish the days I had with Dave and will miss him at every turn, but I am very grateful to God for the opportunity to know him and learn from him. I truly believe that earth lost a treasure, but Heaven gained one! Miriam MacDermot |
| The wind drops...sweetly In the Gorge the red sun sets You walk towards it. I rememeber your programs and the delightful way that you held everyone, suspended, about a subject. I remember wonderful music. When I heard you had died there was a hollowness in me that I am sure was repeated many times by your friends and colleagues. I am sure your soul is in the Gorge, we'll find you there, my friend. Faith L. Duncan |
| I'm the fortunate person who filled David's job at the Discovery Center when he went back to work for the COE. I heard from many people about how wonderful David's programs were here at the Discovery Center. And then I got to know David and find out for myself. I think some of the best testimony is from the mother of a SECRETS student when she told me that her child could still vividly remember his SECRETS experience because of David. Also David was a Project Learning Tree instructor and he made the training fun for us adults. I would see David give his end-of-day story about "She Who Watches" in front of the Elderhostel group that he had been with all day. I could tell by their reactions to his closing that he had been greatly appreciated for all of his stories of the Gorge. I too saw his performance as the wizard in "The Blind Princess" play. One could tell that he was having as much fun portraying the character as was the audience in watching him. David, you have left a huge hole in all that you did, as well as in our hearts. Linda Turner |
| I worked with Dave at Bonneville over many years and always admired his profesionalism and dedication. You could ALWAYS trust Dave to be there for you. As an interpretor, he was effortless in getting his message across to his audiences. His smile was infectious and the room came alive when Dave entered. Dave was the kindest, most giving soul I have ever met. His joy of life could not be surpassed. That fact of so many people, many of whom I have known over these many years, have rsponded to his loss gives testiment to Dave's great effect on all of us. The world is a bit better today due his living, and a bit lessened due to is passing. It was truly a joy to be with Dave and he will be sorely missed. Don Hibbs |
| My mom and David became friends a very long time ago, and even when I was a little kid he was one of those guys who even though he was an adult, I felt like he was my friend also. And he was. I am terribly saddened by his passing, he will always be missed by our family, and by myself. My mom and Susan and him were like the three weird amigos growing up, always cackling and carrying on together. It was always a blast to see him. When I was in my early teens I got a new camera, and David had just got a new camera himself, and had started taking pictures. He showed me his photos, and we would talk about shutter speeds and apertures. Though I haven't seen this particular photo in over fifteen years, I remember one clearly like it was yesterday. He is standing on some craggy spot in the mountains, with a brilliant sunset in the background. David is facing away from the camera, looking out over a vista we the viewer could not see. That is how I remember him, and will always remember him, silhouetted against that wonderful sky. Miss you buddy. Avi Breuer |
| David, what a Ranger he was.... I got to know Dave (As we all called him) whie working for the US Army Corps of Engineers at Bonneville Dam. I was a Park Guide and was learning the ropes of being in the interp. field.... He was always the one that had great short one-liners/comebacks and was ALWAYS positive.... I must say that while I worked with him, he changed my life. You know when you meet those people, and Dave was one of them..... He will be missed, and future visitors at Bonneville and the Gorge will be short of one GREAT program and presenter..... Chris Costello |
| David has been part of our extended family since his time at Evergreen State University. David was a classmate and long-time friend of my wife, Tikva, and I've enjoyed many stories about David, Tikva, and Susan's adventures together over the years. I am very saddened by the loss of this kind and caring man. I admire the way David lived such a full and interesting life, earning the respect and admiration of his family, friends, and colleagues. He was a gem of a man and the lives of all who had the good fortune to encounter him are richer for the experience. Cliff Glantz |
| There is so much to say about the impact David had on me and others. Although my heart is heavy, there is also a smile on my face as I remember him. David could always make you smile and laugh. He was a gifted communicator, especially, when it came to storytelling. Thank you, David for sharing and caring heart. Bev Walker |
| I hired David to work at the Bay Model and it was a sad day when he told me he was returning to his beloved Northwest. Sadder still to hear that he left us too soon. His wonderful spirit permeated everything he did. A gifted interpreter, but most importantly a person this world needs more of. He was kind and generous with his time and talents with enough to go around, and then some. Thank you David, thank you for the time we had with you- I'm so glad our paths crossed. Nancy Rogers |
| I am terribly saddened by the news of David's passing and it is difficult for me to find the right words to express my feelings. I got to know David while I was in college in during the late 80's and working summers at Bonneville along with my wife Margaret. David was my introduction to what it meant to be an "Interpretive Park Ranger" something that I aspired to be. All these years later I am still working at it and David will continue to be my role model for the rest of my career. Eventhough many years have passed since we worked at Bonneville our connection to the place and to David remained strong and will continue to be. I can't bear the thought of David being gone and I will never forget him. Pasquale Anolfo |
| All I can say is I miss David terribly. David has been a fixture with me and my program since I started my job in 1998. We first met when he was with the USFS at the Discovery Center in The Dalles. We later formed the Columbia Gorge Environmental Education providers group. What an incredible loss. David was such an integral part of my program that I wonder where to turn and search for someone to fill in the huge gap that remains. We will move forward, but we will not forget David and all he offered to everyone he touched. He was as intertwined in the gorge and beyond with so many different programs that it overwhelms to even think one person might fill in behind him. I am so glad I had him send me the Bridge of the Gods story last summer when my own children were wanting to hear it. I only told them, nobody can tell a story like David, I will get it from him. It is something I will keep always. So many things I wish I had asked him for. He was the best storyteller, interpreter, tour guide, teacher and friend. He was definately over the top with dedication and positive attitude. Daivd I miss you so much! Cheri Anderson |
| What an achingly sad loss for David's family and many friends, the Columbia Gorge Ecology Institute. for the Bonneville Dam Visitors, and particularly for the children who will miss out on being instilled with David's special sense of wonder for the natural world. David was the radiant face of the Columbia Gorge Ecology Institute and its environmental education programs. It was always a great joy to see David "at work," whether in the classroom, Bonneville Dam Visitor Center, Elderhostel, or especially at any outdoor education experience. He was confident and comfortable as an educator, David was a master of his interpretation trade. David was also an excellent actor. I believe The Blind Princess was the first play he performed in. He brought down the house as the "Magician Thief" with his humor and most wonderful song, These lyrics could have represented one of David Weiss's own life's magical theme songs: "There is magic all around that can set us free I can make you see I can make you see. I can make...you see." Bill Weiler |
| I was privileged to work with David at the Bay Model Visitor Center in Sausalito, CA. I can attest he was a brilliant interpreter and I was so happy to hear when he won the 2007 Hiram M. Chittenden Award for Interpretive Excellence. He was truly deserving of this honor. David will had a wonderful sense of humor and could always be counted on to make you smile. He will be sorely missed. Chris Gallagher |
| I had the pleasure of meeting David many times on my visits to Bonneville. His smile and enthusiasm were infectious. He was always asking questions and wanting to learn more and contribute to the Corps programs, however challenging they might be. I always walked away from my encounters with him more excited about the opportunities and adventures ahead. His soft voice, cocked head, and the sparkle in his eyes spoke of a true zest for life and a strong commitment and love for his craft. It was a pleasure to observe David interact with the public; his approach and personality made visitors feel immediately relaxed and welcome. He exemplified the profession of a Park Ranger. Kevin Paff |
| David, I will miss you very much. Even though we only knew each other for a couple of months, your friendship was cherished by me. I am sorry we didn't make it out shopping together and that I never got to hear you play your marimba music and that we never had that beer. Thank you for all the suggestions for fun things to do in my free time and in my studies (like that rafting trip for class credits!). You are leaving a legacy here at Bonneville Dam that cannot be compared. I am grateful that I was able to know you and witness you in action as an interpreter. Even after I watched you the fourth time around, you put a smile on my face from the beginning to the end. I am so thankful for that. More than anything, I enjoyed our friendship and was looking forward to getting to know you better. Bless you. Danielle Erb |
| I met David in 2007 when I first came to work at the dam and was impressed by him from the start. I have read what others have written about him and listened to the stories about him since the news of his passing started to echo through the gorge. Being that I recently transferred over from the resource crew, David would often tease me and call me a "real ranger" as opposed to those who worked at the Visitor's Center. Every time he called me a "real ranger" we would laugh and undoubtedly exchange a few zingers back and forth. But the truth be told, he could honestly be the best "RANGER" the Corps of Engineers has ever seen. There are many types of rangers out there. Some who are confined to writing emails in cubicles all day, some whom are mere landscapers, and some who just go through the motions. David was none of these. He was famous where it counted. He was a "RANGER". David was a horse when it came to interpretation and outreach. In fact, when you get right down to it, he was the most dedicated person on the Bonneville Project if not in the Portland District. Just so it did not take away from interpretation time, David would drive to the district office in Portland on a non-scheduled work day just to complete whatever menial paperwork that had to be done. For him, this was not a 9 to 5 job. He lived the life of a ranger. He did not watch TV. He did not play computer games. When he was not at work, he was preparing for work or volunteering his time with any number of groups around the gorge. To say that David will be missed is a gigantic understatement. We can not even begin to fathom the impact that David Weiss has had on us all. He truly was one of a kind! Jason Sharp |
| I have known Dave for over 20 years and have always considered him one of the warmest, positive, and effective interpreters in the Corps. I was lucky enough to work with him at Bonneville. I will always think of him as smiling and sharing his enjoyment of life and nature. His positive attitude was infectious - no one could walk away from an encounter with him without feeling better. We need more Dave's in the world. Debby Chenoweth |
| Thank you David for showing me how to play and teach at the same time. Every time I worked with Whip Snake, he gave me smiles, hugs and of course, jokes. I will never forget the many students faces as he leapt out of the woods, playing his drum and singing to start another magical SECRETS field trip. David made a normal day seem special because he was always willing to be present and laugh with you. Thank you David. Ali Bowers |
David taught me a lot about interpretation, especially with groups of kids. He was so good at just being relaxed and connecting with the audience, not letting the big hat get in the way of showing some humbleness or silliness sometimes, and always keeping it fun. He displayed a unique character, a positive & supportive attitude, and a love for life. I will miss you David. We have posted some photos of David in action with the Columbia Gorge Ecology Institute: http://www.gorgeecology.org |
| David was a great friend and coworker. He always came to work with a smile and sense of humor and his company was always enjoyable. He had a great knowledge of what he taught people. While working with David, I learned alot and was able to pick up on many of his techniques to keep his audiance in the palm of his hand. He always went above and beyond in all that he did. He was not only a friend to those he worked with but also family. He will be greatly missed. My sympathy and condolances go out to his friends and family. A quote i have heard often "New friends are silver, but old friends are golden" - David was a golden friend, the void he has left will never be filled. JP |
| I first met Dave in July, 1986. I was assisting the Mazama Explorer Post in climbing Mt. Baker, of which Dave belonged. As the assistant leader, one of my duties was bringing up the rear and assisting any stragglers. Dave and I found ourselves heading to base camp by ourselves, not so much because he was a straggler, but because we were enjoying the outing. I found myself learning "to smell the roses" from this young naturalist and gifted interpreter. Some years later, Dave came to work for the Corps at Bonneville Lock and Dam and it was my privledge to work with him. The room always seemed to light up when he entered it. There will be less joy in my life without Dave, but I have make a safe place to keep the lessons learned, humor and fond memories. A place that I will unlock and will visit often. Dan Troglin |
| What a great loss! David was such an amazing, warm soul. I've known him for years through various environmental and educational endeavors. It's so hard to find the words...It's not often that someone with such a gentle spirit and positive demeanor shares such passion for nature with the world... especially young people! We will miss him terribly. Kristin Reese |
| David will truly be missed by everyone who knew him. I met David through the SECRETS program at the Columbia Gorge Ecology Institute, as many others did. He was incredibly giving of himself, and worked so hard to put others at ease and boost them up. If you ever had a problem, David was there to offer help, thoughtfulness, and support. His was a bright spirit. Thank you, Whip Snake, for everything. Melissa Sandoz |
| David and I were just having a beer two weeks ago. I can't believe he's gone. There's a void in the Columbia Gorge that will be very difficult to fill. I know he would not want us to be mournful, rather, be inspired by his good work and love of nature. He will be sorely missed among the members of the Regional Environmental Education Network and the Environmental Education Association of Oregon. Rex Ettlin |
| I knew David through various COE trainings, events, and meetings. Most recently, during the L&C Bicentennial, when we brought our team to Bonneville for a special event, David stepped right up and was one of the reasons our trip there was memorable. He was an "Interpreter's Interpreter". He knew his craft inside and out. He will be missed by everyone who crossed his path and those that will never get to experience this gift. Ken Wilk |
| David was an amazing person whose life, I don't doubt, touched many people. I first met David through the Columbia Gorge Ecology Institute and the SECRETS program, where my girlfriend worked as intern. He was a charismatic person with a sense of humor that was through the roof. I wound up working along side him a handful of times as we taught students from Wind River Middle School in Carson, WA. I have a number of memories of David - as a musician, a USACE interpreter, an actor, a kind person, an insightful thinker, a collaborator... I know he will be missed by many and I feel fortunate to have known him, to have shared in his laughter... I will remember his large and glowing smile, always coupled with a pair of keen and knowledgeable eyes. Jamie Gomez |
| David was a wonderful, happy individual. He loved his job and those he worked with. Whenever I had the oppurtunity to talk to David his first words were "how are you doing". It wasnt just a general greeting. For David, he really wanted to know. He was a truly good person and will be greatly missed. Tamra Phelps |
| I worked with Dave on and off for many years. I remember overhearing Dave speak French during the introduction to one of his programs. I don't know what he said but had his group in the palm of his hand. More recently our supervisory ranger complimented Dave on a job well done based on what he heard as he was walking by Dave's group. I've tried to pick up on what it was that Dave had that resulted in such positive feedback from both the public and his peers. I wanted to emulate Dave. But the reality is there could only be one. Delivering his knowledge of the subject, often with humor, seemed second-nature. Dave brightened our office with his off-the-cuff observations of the sometimes mundane, sometimes silly life of working for the government. He was a well-liked and highly-regarded individual. I admired Dave for his interpretive abilities, enjoyed working with him, and will miss him. Brian McCavitt |
| I felt lucky to consider David as my friend. He always made me smile. I've known David for over twenty years, first meeting him when I was a Corps of Engineers Ranger then continuing to see him once a year at the NAI National Workshops. These workshops provide venue to have our "family reunions" and that's how I feel about so many interpreters they are part of my "work family." I remember his speech vividly when he received the Hiram M. Chittenden award; he was so excited to finally get a chance to speak. (The Corps venue didn't allow for an acceptance speech.) It showed his humility as he shared how he was showing the Colonel how he teaches about the Corps competing missions and how they have to juggle all of them. He told how he was juggling different items including a light bulb. He then demonstrated how he dropped the light bulb, quick on his feet, he told the Colonel, and fortunately we don't do that in the Corps. Yes David made me smile and after a couple of years I still remember this story. He was a good communicator, facilitator, interpreter and my friend. Cindy Samples |
About NAI Quick Links Contact
NAI |
| National Association for Interpretation | 888-900-8283 |