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David Brew Obituary
Resident of Los Altos
David Alan Brew, Ph.D., died after a short illness on November 7. Dave was a scientist, geologist, passionate defender of our natural resources, world traveller, persistent golfer, avid reader, precise writer, and rigorous thinker.
He was most at home in the mountains, hiking, skiing and always working. He felt the roots of family and history deeply, through his wife, four daughters, eight grandchildren, and extended family. As a life-long field geologist, he was employed with the U.S. Geological Survey since July 1952, except for his graduate years at Stanford and at the University of Vienna as a Fulbright Scholar.
For the last decade, his was a critical voice among the community of residents and activists targeting proposed large-scale real estate developments in Squaw Valley, North Lake Tahoe. He was smart enough to see through the spin, and fearless enough to raise his concerns. His kindness and humor earned the affection of many in the Valley, and beyond. He will be much missed.
A memorial service for Dave will be held at 2pm on Saturday, November 18 at Christ Episcopal Church (1040 Border Rd, Los Altos, CA 94024). A celebration of his life is planned for Squaw Valley in early February '18. Memorial donations can be made to the Peninsula Open Space Trust (openspacetrust.org) and the Truckee Donner Land Trust (tdlandtrust.org/), in lieu of flowers.
View the online memorial for David Alan Brew, Ph. D.
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Memories and Condolences
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4 Entries
John Alexander
April 8, 2024
In 1974, I was an administrative officer for the Office of Mineral Resources in Menlo Park. Dave came by my office one day and ask if I'd like to go with his team to Alaska to gain an understanding of what the work was like. I was surprised and elated as I had great admiration for him. We operated off of the research vessel, Don J. Miller, flying out to the Tracy Arm area. What an experience it was for me, basically being Dave's pack animal for his rock samples.
Fast forward 8-10 years, I was the administrative officer for the Office of National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska. I heard a familiar voice say hello, and there was Dave and that wonderful smile. The fact that he would take the time to drop in on me was such a lift for my spirits.
I feel fortunate to have known him.
Here is a photo I took of Dave "at the office" in the Tracy arm area, 1974.
Patrick Egan
February 27, 2018
I worked as a field assistant for David and Art Ford on the Juneau Icefield during the summers of 1967 & 1968. He was a true leader, an extraordinary scientist, a mentor and a friend. He always spoke of The Great Clear during the days we were in white out conditions and tent bound in 67.
I am now left with only the fondest of memories.
He taught me how to yodel!
Patrick Egan
November 11, 2017
Bill & I enjoyed the company of Dave very much. He was always welcoming & friendly. We are especially appreciative of the time & effort he gave keeping up with ancestory & business matters for our extended family. With our deepest sympathy to Sally, Betsy, Kate, Perrin, & Emily- love, Amalea & Bill Wallis
November 10, 2017
We are so sorry to hear this news and we offer our deepest condolences.
Raymond & Hazel Guaraglia
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