David Clinton Graybill Sr.

David Clinton Graybill, Sr., 67, of Scottsdale, AZ, passed away December 24, 2002. Graybill was born February 20, 1935, in Harrisburg, Pa., to the union of Joseph and Claire Graybill. After being recognized as one of the best high school athletes in Pa., Graybill accepted an athletic scholarship to Arizona State University in Tempe. His athletic accomplishments at ASU earned him 11 letters in three sports and a spot in the Arizona State Sports Hall of Fame for all three sports (football, basketball, and baseball). He has many records that still stand today. After college, he had a short career as a professional football and baseball player. His pro days were cut short as he committed his time to his wife, Arlene Graybill, his children, and a future career in the military. He could not, however, stay away from competition and became a nationally ranked handball player after only having played the sport for a few years. He competed on the handball pro tour and was known as one of the most tenacious athletes to ever play the sport. While his athletic accomplishments are well known to many, he also excelled academically and professionally. During his undergraduate years at ASU, he was a member of the Blue Key National Honorary Fraternity, and was presented the Wall Street Journal Award as the outstanding graduating senior in the business school. He graduated from ASU in 1957 with a BS degree in economics and management, and later earned a Masters Degree with honor roll grades. He also served his country in the military with distinction and after 30 years of honorable service he retired from the Arizona Army National Guard in 1995 after having achieved the rank of Colonel. Professionally, he worked for Arizona Public Service, ASU Athletic Department, and Arizona State Insurance Department, before returning to college and earning his Certified Industrial Developer's Degree and subsequently began a career as an economic developer. With this degree, he had a successful career with the Department of Industrial Development for the state of Arizona, and with the city of Casa Grande, Az. He continued in the field as an independent industrial development consultant until his retirement. Above all else, however, his greatest attributes were that he was universally likeable, generous to everyone, fun to be with, witty, and had a great sense of humor. He loved politics, history, philosophy, reading, and sports. He cherished his six grandchildren, Cole, Lauren, David (Boomer), Logan, Reygan, and Dallan. He lived for his children, Dalene, David, and Darren, and always reminded us that everything he did, ultimately, was for our wellbeing. Literally thousands of people across the United States know him as a "great man." Dad, we send that sentiment up to you tenfold with the added message: You are a great father and thanks for everything you did for us. You're awesome! We love you!! Services will be Thursday, January 2, 2003 at Tempe Mortuary, 405 E. Southern Ave., Tempe, AZ. With a reception to follow at The Fire Training Facility, 1340 E. University Dr. in Tempe. Arrangements handled by Tempe Mortuary.