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BORN
1958
DIED
2013
David Rochester Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for David Rochester
Karla Kelly
June 7, 2022
Oh my deepest condolences to Dave´s family. He was such a gentle soul and on my patio today I have one of his bonsai plants which he gave to me. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time of loss.
Wendy (Srock) Wright
April 6, 2014
To Dave's family: Back in the midseventies, Roach taught me how to play guitar and he has remained in my memory as one of the people whom influenced my life. I pray that your memories of him will ease your loss. I was immediately saddened to find out even thou almost a year has passed but I am sure he is playing in heaven with the best of them. I hope to join the band when it is my time to go meet Jesus face to face. Until then Roach, play us out.....
Ron Ogdon
January 15, 2014
Last Sunday, we bought one of Big Dave's Robusta Junipers at a SDBC meeting. We never got to know Dave but his memory will live on with us through the plant. God bless you, Dave!
July 3, 2013
I was one of the many teens, a brand new Christian, at Hume Lake one of the summers the Calvary Mountain Boys played there over 30 years ago. I discovered this tribute page by accident after doing an Internet search spurred on by my finding a cassette tape, while cleaning out some old boxes at my home last week, and singing along by heart the eternal truths and inspirations that have remained an integral part of my life's journey to this very day.
This is my effort, as cumbersome as it may be, of speaking for the hundreds and hundreds of others who were eternally affected by the lives and music of Dave Rochester and the Calvary Mountain Boys those long ago summer days- treasured memories of a simpler time, when more life lay ahead than behind and Dave sang, “Take hold my son, don't give in to the evil one. Don't worry about tomorrow, until today is done.” And later in the song, “…You speak and I'll do what's right.” Inspired words that express the desire of my heart then and now. And as tears well up in my eyes, I will keep singing.
May the Lord bring comfort, blessing, and courage to face these difficult times of loss.
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Bonny Rochester
June 25, 2013
My husband Dave was the love of my life.
Every day I want him back so badly, the holy spirit has comforted me with the peace that he no longer suffers. Dave for many years suffered for back pain he was the toughest man I ever knew. He never took the pain pills the doctors would give him. Also he no longer has a sin nature. I'm comforted by these things but I miss him so much.
He was the most Christ like person I ever knew. It was such and honor to be his wife. We were married 31 years not long enough. when I was thirsty at night he always would get up and eagerly get me water. Jesus wanted to have him near him to comfort him. i thought we had forever, I do have hope I will join him when the lord takes me.
off to christain high
June 25, 2013
Dave playing harmonica and guietar, Calvary mountain boys
June 25, 2013
Ben and Dave working
June 25, 2013
Dave Jacob and Bonny at Bens graduation party
June 25, 2013
Karla Kelly
June 17, 2013
I wanted to add a postscript to my early posting, after attending the memorial service for Dave. Among the many things that moved me, was the realization, that while most of us only experienced a small aspect of Dave's life, whether it was through the Bonsai Club, at church, home or as friends, the one constant in those varied experiences was that we all saw the same kindness, authenticity, regard for human life and compassion. It made me appreciate the most important thing we have, which is love and integrity. In the end, though there may be many sides to the diamond, and we may each see different colors, what is unmistakable is the strength, purity and brilliance of the stone, which is what Dave was to all of us who knew him.
June 17, 2013
I have thought of little else since hearing the devastating news, and my thoughts and prayers have been with you all -- and our faith transforms this devastation to anticipation of the time when we meet again. Love and hugs from Elfriede
Wendy Rochester
June 17, 2013
The family spent Sunday afternoon (Father's Day) reading the cards and guest book and reminiscing about Dave's life, love and songs.
We are all so thankful and grateful for each one of you. Thank you to all of you for blessing us in so many ways. You have surrounded us with your love and support, your prayers, hugs, and shared tears, as well as your calls, flowers, gifts, cards, messages, posts, pictures, and music. We wish we could thank you all one-by-one.
Thank you for blessing us with your stories of love and loss from your own lives as well as sharing with us either in person or in spirit as we celebrated and memorialized Dave's life. It so helps to know we're not alone.
We were deeply moved by the number of people Dave touched with his life and songs. What a blessing that so many were able to come in person to his memorial and celebration of life. We felt surrounded by your love and came away with joy in our sure and certain hope of the resurrection through the work Jesus did by dying on the cross for our sins and rising from the grave on the third day. If you haven't made a decision to accept Jesus as your personal Savior, in honor of Dave, don't put that decision off any longer.
For those who weren't at the service, the celebration was videotaped and we hope to offer an opportunity for others to view the video of the service and see the powerpoint of pictures with Calvary Mountain Boys music that was played at the end of the service.
We are looking forward to hearing more stories and memories from friends and loved ones about Dave (aka Big Dave, Dave Jr, Roach, Davy, Daddy, Grand-daddy, et.al.)
A special thank you for all of the beautiful flower arrangements and a little story. I met a widow lady at Singing Hills Memorial Park who was laying flowers on her husband's grave as we were preparing to start the graveside service. She said she was sorry for my loss and had to tell me about the pepper she brings with her to the Park.
She said the groundskeeper told her to put pepper on the flowers to keep the deers from eating them. This kind lady was sharing in our loss and wanted the rest of the family to know about putting pepper on the flowers.
So, yesterday as the family was all together, I told the story of the ‘pepper' lady. In Bonny's (Dave's wife) sweet way she said, “Dave liked deer.” She thought he wouldn't mind if they ate the flowers. I'm sure the deers had a wonderful feast Saturday night.
Thank you again for your love, prayers and support of our extended family and joining with us in our sure and certain hope of eternity in heaven. As Dave's song Pilgram says, we are all pilgrams just passing through this land with our suitcase in our hand.
In Christian Love, Because He Lives We Can Face Tomorrow,
Wendy along with the Rochester family: Dave Sr and Barb, Bonny, Jacob, Ben & Rosie (Warren & Lily), Amy and Jessica.
June 16, 2013
Offering sincere condolences. May your family find comfort in Psalms 65:2
Gail Neves
June 16, 2013
Wendy and Barbara, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Glenn Jensen
June 16, 2013
I only knew Big Dave for a short time, but long enough to find him a warm, friendly, caring human being. I never heard an unkind or critical word from him. What a nice man!
Karen Lyons
June 16, 2013
Uncle Dave was the best kind of person. He was hilariously funny and had the gift of putting people at ease and making them feel welcome. His memorial service was a testament to his love for the Lord and his positive impact on the people in his life. He will be missed.
June 16, 2013
His Voice Has Taken Wing
Ever since he led me to the Lord when I was a small child, I've looked up to my big brother Dave. He's my hero--always making me laugh, always making me see the joy in life. When I saw him in the hospital last week, he said I cheered him up!
The line in his song Pilgrim, “I'm gonna' see my family,” now takes on a whole new meaning. I know he is watching for us, and when I see him again his face will be glowing with love just like it did when he talked about his children or his “Grand-boy” and “Grand-girl.”
He'll always be my big brother Dave—big in joy and big in love and big in laughter. Someday I'll be by his side and we will be laughing and singing together in God's choir, and he'll lovingly call me by his nickname for me, “Wing,” as we praise Jesus for all eternity.
~Wendy Rochester
Main tribute page for my brother Dave: http://davidrochester.weebly.com/
Thank you to everyone for keeping us in your thoughts and prayers. The tributes and comfort from all of your loving words mean so much to all of us in the family as we deal with the shock and mourning of the loss of our beloved son, brother, husband, Daddy and Grand-daddy.
54But when this perishable will have put on the imperishable, and this mortal will have put on immortality, then will come about the saying that is written, “DEATH IS SWALLOWED UP in victory.55“O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? ODEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?”56The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law;57but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
58Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord. I Cor 15
June 15, 2013
Dave "Roach" Rochester will forever be in my memory. Playing football on the line next to Dave, carrying him 100 yards in full pads, playing guitars, singing in Ensemble, surfing, and many more memories. Thank you for being part of my life Roach. I know you are in a wonderful place now with our Lord, but we will all miss you.....
June 15, 2013
The Memorial Service for Dave today was quite beautiful and memorable. . . one of my personal discussions with Dave covers several of the past years within the San Diego Bonsai Club. . .Dave and I had had several discussions about the Presidency of SDBC and I have encouraged him to consider taking on that role but for several years he continued to tell me that he wasn't ready. . .Then finally 2 years ago he said, I guess it's my turn to help out" And, indeed he did. . . Thanks always, Dave. . . you did a wonderful job and added the fun and frivolity that was needed at exactly the right time. . .We shall miss you but not forget your messages. . . 'lyn Stevenson
Nellie Downie
June 15, 2013
Dave is missed. The tears his family & friends will cry will fill his heart like a waterfall. A rainbow of memories will come in time.
Dave's time in the club was like a rocket – so many ideas put into place. His slideshows and commentary were looked forward to by all. He spoke to the newcomers like family. All his encouragements made the club grow.
Dave was always a welcomed hand in the kitchen, the 8 years that I was working it (I miss the club's camaraderie).
Dave's memory will shine in my heart.
His voice & smile are imprinted in my soul.
God Bless him and everyone he came in contact with.
Love, Nellie Downie
June 15, 2013
My heart and prayers go out to the Rochester Family. I worked with Wendy and Barb for many years.
Barb Allen
Chris Heckler
June 14, 2013
A better person I have yet to meet! I will never forget him and the things he taught us. His memory will leave a smile on my face forever! Rest in Peace Big Dave!
alex sundukovskiy
June 14, 2013
I met Dave only once through his son and my friend Jacob. Jacob and the rest of the Rochester family are wonderful people and of course an amazing reflection on Dave. May his memory give them comfort and solace in this sad moment of loss.
Dan Lee
June 14, 2013
Yesterday is history, Tomorrow is a mystery, Today is a gift ..... Big Dave was a real gift to all who knew him. I feel privileged to have known him.
Dan Lee
June 14, 2013
Our love and prayers go out to all of
David's family, especially Bonny and the children and his parents, David and Barbara Rochester. Rev. Alan and Lynn Ernst
June 14, 2013
God bless Big Dave. What a wonderful man. Dave exuded love and happiness. The world has lost a true treasure. I mourn Dave's premature passing along with all of his myriad admirers and friends. I wish Big Dave were still here, but I treasure the time we had with him. Laurie Orange
John Kirby
June 13, 2013
My thoughts are with Big Dave's family, he seemed a kind and thoughtful soul.
Maria Barbosa
June 13, 2013
Dave's passing is a heavy burden, but knowing that he is heaven looking out for his family and friends is comforting. Dave's positive energy and outlook on life was a gift for all who knew him.
June 13, 2013
I am so saddened to learn of Dave's return. I went to high school with him many years ago, and last saw him in April at the SD Bonsai Club show. I was very happy to reconnect with him then. Adonai gives and Adonai takes away. Prasied be the name of Adonai who loaned us Dave. A blessing upon your heads!
With kind wishes, Keith A. Liker
Martha Choy
June 13, 2013
The first time I met Big Dave was at the SDBC through Jason Tucker. Together, they both invited me to be a part of Bonsai Buddies. I never thought that being a part of that group would permit me to become what the name implied, buddies with everyone involved. During the time we worked on trees Dave taught us many new things including the basic, intermediate and advance techniques of bonsai; but I also learned about generosity, working as a team and a positive attitude towards everything in life. While we worked on one branch we would talk about not just how one should treat the tree, but about how we should treat our lives, our families, our hopes and our dreams.
One day talking about our dreams Dave asked me, “What is your biggest dream, Martha?” To which I replied, “My biggest dream is to learn Bonsai from the place it started, in Japan.” I would have never imagined that this small exchange of words; Dave would turn them into reality.
To remember Dave as only a teacher would not do justice for he showed me that I could achieve my dreams through enthusiasm and his typical “Woo Hoo” way.
Karla Kelly
June 13, 2013
I will miss Dave so much. He was my friend, a colleague, client and the most gracious, kind and thoughtful man I have known. He was committed to building and sustaining loving relationships, and did so much to bring harmony to the San Diego Bonsai Club. I will never forget him and his joy of life, and love of family and friends.
Jacob Rochester
June 13, 2013
My dad was my first and dearest friend. I learned more from him than any other person in this world. He left me with a wealth of wisdom and happy memories.
June 13, 2013
Dave will be missed by so many. I was so proud of him always. His smile and kind heart and warm hug will be missed by so many. My dad would want us to remember the good times and keep laughing.
Amy Rochester
Amy Rochester
June 13, 2013
My Dad was the most Kind, and gentle person I have ever met. I can't wait to hug him again.
Dave at the Huntington Botanical Garden (with Statue Goliath)
Amy Rochester
June 13, 2013
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