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BORN
1952
DIED
2024
David Neilan Obituary
September 15, 1952 - October 6, 2024
Bellingham, Washington - Dave passed away Sunday, October 6, 2024 in Ellensburg WA due to recent health issues. He was at one of his favorite places, in the mountains, at elk camp with friends and family. Dave spent his life in and around Bellingham: Silver Beach, Geneva and Fairhaven looking out at Bellingham Bay. He graduated from Sehome High School.
Dave was born to Gerald Thomas Neilan and Evelyn Brewster Neilan on September 15, 1952. He joined his brothers and sisters as the youngest: Vern Neilan (Carol Olson 2008), Ron Neilan 2009 (Ardis Weatherby 2006), Edward Neilan (Linda Bornstein), Geri Neilan Davis (Linn Davis 2009), and Mary Neilan Grunhurd (Randy Grunhurd).
On March 12, 1988 he married Shari Shadley in Custer Washington and was blessed with three sons: Bo Neilan and wife Tristen Felder of Byhalia, MS, Chase Neilan and wife Jaimie Simplot of Blaine and Drew Neilan of Bellingham. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Brooklyn, Oakes, Kennadie, Kennslie, Wren, a soon to be born number six, and numerous nieces and nephews who will miss him.
In the spring, as he wished, he will be scattered in the mountains of eastern Washington.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Neilan
JoAnne Barnett Folsom
April 9, 2025
I am sorry to hear of your passing. We haven't seen each other since the mid 70's. There were many good times, lots of laughs & Jeepin' with the gang I hope life treated you well! RIP Rudy.
craig moore
November 1, 2024
Dear Shari,
I am sorry about David's passing. He was a good friend. Let me know if I can be of any help. We were in Japan when he passed.
craig
Joe and Delfina Amarando
October 17, 2024
Shari and boys, Joe and I are very saddened on the hearing of Dave's "Rudy" passing. He was definitely a funny and great guy. Joe has some very funny fond memories. Know we are praying for you and your family.
John Cunningham
October 17, 2024
RIP David, lots of good memories.
Liz Bernstein
October 16, 2024
Dear Neilan family
I will sorely miss Dave and will hold fond memories of my neighbor. He was always in everybody's business and knew the goings-on in the condominium. My heart rests a bit easier knowing that he passed doing what he loved best, being out in nature on land that was dear to him.
Blessings to you all and hugs for the grandchildren
Matt Monaghan
October 14, 2024
My condolences to Dave's family and friends. My Dad and I met Dave (and Ron) at his favorite place (elk camp near Ellensburg) about 5 years ago. We too are from Whatcom County. Dave was very welcoming to us, and I've always looked forward to seeing him every year up there since. I'm sorry I missed him this year as I was late getting up on the mountain. Rest In Peace Dave. You will be missed and thank you for sharing your favorite elk grounds with me.
Mark Thomas
October 14, 2024
Dave was a great neighbor to have across the alley growing up in Silver Beach. His entire family were great people with Dave the youngest. You could always know that Dave would harvest a deer from the hills around Lake Whatcom or higher up towards Mount Baker. He knew the hills like most people know their back yard. My condolences to his entire family. Dave was a really good guy and always fun to talk with.
Steven Brown
October 12, 2024
Shari and family, so sorry to hear about Dave's passing and your loss. Dave was a hard worker and good guy.
Chase neilan
October 11, 2024
Doneva Froberg
October 11, 2024
Dearest Shari & Family, our deepest love & Sympathy to all of you!
May God Be with YOU till you MEET again. xoxoxox
Ann Agnello
October 11, 2024
Mary Jane Merrill
October 10, 2024
Wonderful man who loved his family and the woods.
Chase neilan
October 10, 2024
Tracy
October 10, 2024
I´m so sorry for your loss He was a good man.
Kurt Miller
October 10, 2024
Sad news today. Dave was my friend in the concrete trades and was always fun to be around. Rest in peace, friend.
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