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David Bradbury Obituary
David Alan Bradbury died peacefully in his San Pedro home on February 1st at the age of 67 after a blessedly brief period of illness following his cancer diagnosis. His wife Jane was by his side. He was predeceased by his parents, Bertha (Bert) Bradbury and Henry (Jack) Bradbury. David left behind his wife Jane Bradbury, stepdaughter Sarah Wildfang, sister and brother-in-law Donna and Gordon James, nieces Kitty Keith and Erin Wilson, as well as Erin's husband and daughter, David and Norah Wilson.
Born in Omaha, Nebraska, David and his family relocated to
Lunada Bay, California where he grew up surfing, roller-skating, and romping with friends. David received his diploma in the first graduating class of Palos Verdes High School and from there earned his Bachelor of Arts from University of Redlands and an MFA from the Cranbrook Academy of Art in Michigan. Then he carved out an illustrious career teaching ceramics at Peninsula High School for 32 years, garnering the love of countless students who came to respect "the art, the skill, the thrill of 'throwing the mud'," as his long-time friend Noelle Otis wrote.
Another fan of "Mr. B.'s," his student Kelley Mitchell Pedigo wrote "I know for a fact that you changed the course of the lives of me and many of my friends in high school. You gave us a place where creativity and personal growth could occur without judgment or blame. You were a role model to me when my opinion of adults was low. You were open minded, fun, informative, friendly to your students and you made us feel accepted for our individual interests. I'm so thankful
that we shared that time together. I don't think too many students have the opportunity to become friends with their teachers."
David excelled at every sport he tried (including tennis, paddle tennis, golf, baseball), he coached tennis (along with his Dad as assistant coach), and served as advisor to the Surfing Club. He even bowled a 300 game at the Palos Verdes Bowling Alley, according to his sister.
A bon vivant, animated conversationalist, and gentle kidder, David enjoyed the company of his good friends both from the past and present. He hosted many a lively Mothers' Day party, wowing the crowd with his grilling expertise. Generous with his love and any of his possessions, David vastly preferred giving to receiving.
David recently explained in his artist's statement, "I find my visual ideas in the patterns and symmetry of the natural environment, and I'm also drawn to the whimsical ways and charming appearance of our furry mammals. Art brings me great joy, and I want people to smile and feel happy in response to my work." David would want people to smile and feel happy remembering his laudatory life of creative productivity and wholehearted devotion to the people in his world.
David was a kind force of love, care, merriment, creativity, and strength-that's not gone. May we all remember and celebrate his legacy of spirit, even while we are missing him so much.
A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Saturday, March 8, 2:00 pm at the Kelly Johnson Field House, Palos Verdes Peninsula High School, 27118 Silver Spur Rd., Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to a Palos Verdes Peninsula High School scholarship fund to further deserving ceramics students' art education. Checks may be made payable to Palos Verdes Peninsula High School (memo David Bradbury Scholarship Fund) and mailed to the school to the attention of Micah Farrell. Please sign the guestbook at www.dailybreeze. com/obits.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Bradbury
Jenny Africano
February 9, 2024
From High School 40 years ago. Best teacher ever.
Bo Countryman
July 3, 2022
Mr B. will always be living in the lessons he passed on to us & now we must pay forward to generations to come. He inspired us, while also showing us the work ethic required to create art. I will miss you Mr B.
Ian A Mikelson
February 9, 2022
I still find myself fondly thinking of "B" frequently. What a kind man who made impressions on lives far beyond his comprehension. Miss ya buddy!
kelley mitchell pedigo
February 9, 2021
I miss David every single day
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Kevin Floyd
September 6, 2014
May ALL of the KILN GODS shine your smile, love of life, inner glow and that amazing ability you gave so freely, that match which you ignited in so many of us, to continue on through all you touched.
"Now take your slabs outside and feel your world!"
Thank you my friend. You released a vision within me which has never stopped. I love you dude... Ever since our first meeting, Summer 72'.
Glow, my friend and be!
David was a guest at Kate's wedding in 1989
May 21, 2014
Laurie Stewart-Class of '81
April 15, 2014
I just found out about Mr. B's passing today, I was just telling my co-workers a "Mr. B" story today!! He was such a nice guy/teacher, he really made my enjoyment of ceramics a great experience!!
Ian Mikelson
March 12, 2014
B! You were so much more than just a teacher. You were a friend, a supporter and an educator in life. Your lessons extended far beyond the world of ceramics and I consider myself truly fortunate to have had the opportunity to know and learn from you. There are teachers and professors who do their job well, but are forgotten with time. Then there are those like yourself, who leave an indelible mark on their students and are cherished forever for doing so. You enriched the lives of more than you ever knew. I remember I used to cut other classes to go back to yours! I can't say that about any other teacher in my entire scholastic experience. You were well and truly one of a kind and all who met you knew it. I thank you for being you, and doing all that you did. Rest in peace my friend.
March 10, 2014
To the Bradbury Family,
Love to all of you. He was a wonderful person and will be sadly missed.
Love from
The Turner Family
Allison Brenner
March 8, 2014
So sad to hear of Mr.B's passing. I had him for two years in high school for ceramics, and I loved every minute of it. He was open and inspiring at a time when I needed it the most. In fact, I still remember a quote of his and hold it dear: "to dream of the person you will be is a waste of the person you are". Rest in peace, Dr.B.
- Allison Brenner, PVPHS Class of '97
March 8, 2014
March 8th 2014
We had a question we needed answered when we first heard of the passing of our friend David Bradbury - The question was "How do you say thanks to a man for a million smiles"? That question was easily answered when we talked together and happily remembered our friend David who invited us into his home, his life and his BIG heart. David brightened the room with his smile, his conversation, his wit and of course his imagination and creativity. David was indeed that rare commodity "A Class Act". We enjoyed reminiscing about the times we spent together with him and dear Jane most of which was captured on the numerous photos we shared together from dinners, to fun partys, to viewing Rembrandt at the Getty. We are also very proud and fortunate to have one of David's original artworks "RED CAT" in our home which brings us and our friends much pleasure in viewing along with many many shared smiles and memories. Our hearts go out to Dear Jane and we look forward to sharing many past and future memories with her.
We are honored to have been called FRIEND by David and as we say "Goodnight sweet friend.....for now"!
Much Love
Tom & Sandy
Annie Aldrich
March 7, 2014
Words cannot express the profound impact that David has had on my life. He was more than an awesome teacher. He was a friend. He offered crazy inspiration, encouragement, and a welcome, happy place to hang out and create! David, we were so fortunate to have you in our lives, and your positive, creative force in the world inspiring so many kids is mind-blowing! I know you changed my life. I continued my art education, and now enjoy working full time as a ceramic artist. Love and hugs to you, Jane, and thank you, David!
Debbie and Greg Gansert
March 7, 2014
David was a kind and generous friend. I remember the "Be Nice" hat he had made for us all,it is now a reminder of who David was to everyone he would meet. An encourager to his students and an inspiration to his many friends.
We love you and miss you David.
Lauren Flicker
March 7, 2014
If you are lucky you will have encountered someone like Mr.Bradbury in your life. He changed mine and tapped me into my creative wonder for clay. He opened up locked places and was such an inspiration. Someone I will never forget and am so thankful to have had him as my teacher all those years ago.
12:45 over Blue Crater, with a little salt. XO
William Zucker
March 7, 2014
Love this man. Hopping on plane from Hawaii in a few hours to share in the celebration of a great man. Thank you for making life far more fun.
Carole Daley
March 6, 2014
Dear Jane,
I am so sorry to hear about Dave's passing. The summer won't be the same without him; but I hope you will be at Craig's. Dave's kindness was always appreciated. His artwork was astounding. He moved way beyond ceramics and his incorporation of ceramics into his work was unforgettable.
March 2, 2014
Jane,
So sorry to hear about David. He will be missed by me and all in the summer class. Those terrific constructions he made were a delight.
All my best to you in this sad time.
For now, Craig
Pat Akins
February 28, 2014
Dear Jane,
David and my late husband Frank Akins taught together for many years and Frank considered him a kind and loyal friend.
David was also a faithful fan of our son Tim who played baseball and basketball for PVPHS in the 90's. I think David attended every baseball game and was so supportive.
I loved his spirit and sense of humor. God bless you as you adjust to your new life without your dear man.
Linda Jo Russell
February 27, 2014
I always admired how students in your class worked so independently, creatively and with such dedication that comes only with trust.
February 26, 2014
Mr Bradbury was simply the best. Easy going, kind and beyond patient. You will live on in the hearts of everyone you touched. Myself included. I'm so thankful to had had the pleasure of being one of your students. God bless your family David and all who loved you. Ps. Wasn't his class the most fun you had in high school?
Karen Hribar
Paul Davis
February 24, 2014
Mister B., best class by far in school. Awesome to be able to express creative abilities with his enthusiastic encouragement and guidance. Would have taken it all 4 yrs. had I been aloud. Sorry to the family and friends for the loss of an AWESOME DUDE!
-Paul Davis class of 87
Ingrid Schneider
February 24, 2014
Mr B was an amazing man. I spent many hours in the ceramics room with him laughing and being such an encouragement. High School was bearable because of you and your class. 3 years of ceramics and I still have my hands in clay to this day. Its a passion of mine because you installed in us what it was to be creators and find that place in life where time stood still. Praying for Grace and Mercy for your family.
Chris Strong
February 24, 2014
Mr. B. You were the reason why I was able to wake up every morning and go to school. You were an inspiration to me as a person and as an artist. You had patience with all your students that many could not measure up to. You made learning the art of ceramics fun and challenging. You inspired me to be a better artist and I contribute much of my artistic abilities and drive to you. You were an amazing teacher and friend. You were respected by everyone and you will be missed.
Jessica Johnson
February 24, 2014
Mr B you were such an inspiration to so many of us. Your humor coupled with your kindness & patience makes you an unforgettable teacher & mentor. You will be missed.
Tom Strong
February 24, 2014
As a former fellow teacher at Rolling Hills High, I know how the students loved and admired you as a teacher. You truly cared for them, and loved teaching them. You are truly missed.
Niurka Strong
February 24, 2014
Mr. B. you will be greatly missed by my children, Larry and Christopher. I have many of their creations that came from your teaching. I know you were their favorite teacher. You were a great person, not just a teacher but a friend to all your students.
Diane Ongarato
February 23, 2014
Mr B! When I took your class I had fingernails as long as hell!! Who can "throw" with talons like that? I could! Because you gave me latex gloves and worked with me. It was so awesome that you were willing to go the extra step to help me. Much love and peace.
February 23, 2014
many thanks to the teacher, artist and friend that you were to all of us. RIP
Namaste,
Bonnie Evans/Jones
Ken Govan
February 23, 2014
Love You David you were the best teacher I ever had you taught e how to learn by looking at things from different perspectives. I will never forget you.
Doreen Green
February 21, 2014
RIP Mr. Bradbury. Your class was the only one I looked forward to. Your kind heart, soul and being so open minded was refreshing. Most people remember the teachers they did not enjoy or learn from, but I will always remember you. You taught me more than ceramics.
Lisa Class of 91
February 19, 2014
I was so sad to hear of Mr B's passing. He was kind, funny and made school what it should be....exciting and inspiring. He loved to teach and as a student, you knew that. I am lucky to have known him.
memories of David Bradbury
kelley pedigo
February 19, 2014
Vicki Schoenfeld
February 18, 2014
Thank you Mr. B for being the teacher that made it possible for artists like yourself to be motivated to show up & finish HS! You made a difference in more lives than you could ever imagine. RIP
Debra Huett
February 18, 2014
David while you're in heaven find Ralphie and sing one with Ol'blue eyes. You will be missed here but are in good hands and with friends.
Jenny Africano
February 18, 2014
Thanks for helping me to finish HS Mr Bradbury. You were a great guy. I still have my creations from your class 30 years ago.
Heather Collins
February 16, 2014
Mr. Bradbury was one of my favorite teachers and I still have the pottery I made in his class...1978.
RIP Mr. Bradbury
ROMEY MUMBY
February 16, 2014
HE WAS A VERY SPECIAL BOY AND MAN. HE WILL BE MISSED.
Peggi Collins
February 16, 2014
I am sooo sorry to hear about Dave's death. I started PVHS with him in the 9th grade and kept in touch over the years. He was so very talented.
Troy Nordahl
February 16, 2014
Mr. B! You inspired and motivated countless students (including myself) who were fortunate enough to cross your path. Your kindness, talent and love for your students made a huge difference in the lives of generations of kids. You will never be forgotten. God Speed and God Bless!
Jon Henke
February 16, 2014
You were one of a kind, Mr Bradbury!
Jon Wells
February 15, 2014
Well Dave, the world sure has lost a really good soul. You were a great teacher and an even better friend to hang out with and share a few beers. Your spirit will live on with the many people you have touched creatively and in friendship. Rest peacefully my friend....
Monica Meehan
February 15, 2014
RIP Davey. You were one of a kind, my sweet friend. I hope you find your way home. Love always
February 15, 2014
David was one of the only teachers I remember because he was such a funny, loving man and made class so much fun that no one ever ditched! Heaven is lucky to have him!
February 15, 2014
I will cherish the memories you have imprinted in my mind and soul...May you be at peace up in the heavens...God Bless!
Richard Ewen
February 15, 2014
David was a most giving and instant friend who I met at Cranbrook Academy of Art. A small group of us moved West upon graduation and maintained our fullfilling relationship with a highly motivated artist and teacher. He will be missed, but I have some of his art to remember him by.
Patrick Webster
February 15, 2014
I loved David. Not a mean bone in that man's body.
kelley mitchell pedigo
February 15, 2014
oh David, rest in peace dear friend. Your memory is alive in so many and we are all better people for having had you in our lives. Be at peace too, Jane.
Gordon & Anna Marie Haas
February 15, 2014
Goodbye my sweet friend. Mother Earth has lost one of her "nicest" children. We sincerely thank you for the time you spent with us. You will be a permanent image in our hearts and minds. Peace.
Gordon & Anna Marie
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