David Matthew Zagel

Dave - All these years later I still miss your positivity. 'Twas such an effective foil to my dourness. In hindsight I truly wish I had had some insight into whatever was wrong at the end. I still remember the last time we spoke - we were passing on the sidewalk in front of our houses and it was obvious to me from our brief exchange that something heavy was troubling you. That legendary smile everyone below mentions was nowhere to in evidence. I still to this day carry with me the regret...

I just heard of David's death today and was so very sorry to hear of it. I worked with David at TriMet years ago. He was wonderful to work with. Such a bright, nice person.

David, no one had more to offer this world than you. I remember you well, not only at NHS where I taught for many years, but when you worked at Starbucks here in Portland. It was wonderful to see your smiling, happy face at Starbucks.

I am so sad to hear of David's death. My sincear condolences to his family and friends. I knew David during the time he worked at the Marriott Hotel in the late 80's. He was kind and always nice and smiling. I saw him once on TV during Trimet meeting and was not surprised that he had gone so far in his career. He will be missed, even though we had not been in contact for years, he left a lasting immpresion in my heart and mind. Rest in peace.

David was one of the best in his profession. His brilliance was surpassed only by the brightness of his smile.

David had an aura about him. He'd light up a room upon entry. We'll miss him dearly.

I knew David from the time he was born until he left us. By age 1 he had a smile that would light up a room, because it wasn't just his mouth, it was his eyes that smiled. He has left a hole in the fabric of my life. Rest in peace little brother.

David, your genuine compassion, intelligence, passion and that amazing smile could open even the most firmly closed hearts and minds. Dang, you will be missed so terribly much. But it was such an privilege to know you.

I worked with David at TriMet late 90s/early2000s and would run into him at conferences and other events in the following years. Enjoyed his kindness and humor and some great conversations about communities and transit as well as his beloved Ducks. A great person. Rest in Peace.