David Thomas "Dave" Stillman
David Thomas "Dave" Stillman
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David Stillman Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Duluth News Tribune.
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May 17, 2009
I pray that time is healing for both of you. Are you going to your cabin this summer? Wish we could get together! Would love to see you and give you each a big hug! Mavis and Stan
Nate and Maria VanSanten
May 14, 2009
Still miss you and will never stop livin the dream.
Jim Stillman
May 15, 2008
To All,
This is to thank you for all the thoughts and prayers, I know they have been a great comfort to Tom & Jo the past two years. This support shows them what kind of person Dave was in life and still is through his spirit in all of us. May God continue to guide Tom and Jo and may we all continue "Living the Dream" through the love we have for "Dave."
Amanda Avikainen
May 13, 2008
So many things come by me that are reminders you are still with us Dave; everyday I drive to work I see the #33 on a sign. I miss having a friend like you around to call and talk to about things, I am glad that I still am in touch with your parnts. I miss you and love you lots Dave <3
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Nate and Maria VanSanten
May 13, 2008
Although it has been two years since you left us we still feel that you are with us each and every day. We are greatful for the time that we are able to get together with your parents sharing memories and learning more about you. You will always be missed. PS i could use some help making my fairway lines a little straighter!
sara smith
May 13, 2008
"Not a day goes by when i don't think of you.. after all this time, you're still with me, it's true." I heard that song on the radio coming to work tonight and it made me think of you once again!! I cannot believe it has been two years since you left us... it seems like just yesterday*** I know that you are with us everyday and can feel you with me!! Miss you down here.... Love ya!!
Mavis and Stan Graven
May 7, 2008
We are still praying for comfort for the two of you. Losing a child must be the most difficult thing anyone could experience. David must have been an incredible person--like his parents. God be with both of you.
Leah Junker
May 6, 2008
I was listening to the baseball song the other day and it made me cry. i miss you so much
Kathy Benson
May 5, 2008
Dear JoAnn and Tom,
It is hard to believe that we have 2 years gone with David's passing. I am sure some of your ache is gone, but there will always be an empty spot in your hearts. I hope you will continue to lean on your friends/family and will reflect on your good memories of being blessed for 22 years with a great son. loveya, kb
Nate VanSanten
April 10, 2008
Well Dave our dream of running our own golf course finnaly happened. Its going to be tough doing it on my own but i know that you will be standing by my side each day helping me out. I miss you Dave and will continue to live the dream down here for you.
Kathy Benson
June 15, 2007
Dear Tom & JoAnn, knowing that Mothers Day and now Fathers day are special days, I know your hearts are still aching with the loss of your David. Just know that many people think of both of you and hope that our support, love and prayers help a little with your loss. kb
Nate VanSanten
May 19, 2007
It's hard to believe that it has been over a year now. You still manage to be brought up in most conversations at the course, and you still find a way to make us all smile. You are missed greatly Dave and we will never forget you. We are doing are best at livin the dream, hope we make you proud. Tom and JoAnn thank you for all you have done for us, please know that we will always be here for you. Nate and Maria
Amanda Avikainen
May 17, 2007
It is still so hard to understand why things happen the way they do, but it has been a blessing to have the people around us as support. Tom and JoAnn, my prayers are always with you and it is always comforting when I am able to visit with the two of you.
Lynda Chase
May 16, 2007
Tom and JoAn, please know that you are still in our thoughts and prayers! Lynda Olby Chase
Kathy Benson
May 15, 2007
Dear JoAnn & Tom, as we observe a one year anniversary, it is still so very hard to understand and make sense of David's death. I am still so deeply moved to tears and wonder how you two have been able to cope. I hope I have been able to give you a bit of comfort and help in easing your pain. Your lives have been changed and someday we will know why. For now, all we can do is try to comfort one another and keep the faith. My friend who lost her parents within a year has said that you don't ever lose your grief, you just get used to it. I pray for you both each day.
Leah Junker
May 14, 2007
its been a year, and not any easier...i love you and miss you dave
sara smith
May 13, 2007
It has been a year since you have been taken away from us but yet it seems like yesterday... there is not a day that goes by that I dont think of you. Knowing you has brought many people together this past year to comfort and help each other through the hard times... i am very thankful that I have gotten to know your parents and friends--
Mavis and Stan Graven
December 25, 2006
We are thinking of you this Christmas day. All of our family has been here (We live in Dallas, Oregon). My thoughts always return to you and how much we have pondered your great loss. God bless and be with the two of you and may your hearts be comforted and joyful in His love. Much love always. Mavis and Stan Graven
Leah Junker
December 23, 2006
Dave- Merry Christmas budday!!! I can't even begin to explain to you how hard things can be sometimes with you gone!!! I want you to know how much you are missed, and even though you are gone you are still thought of every single day!!! merry christmas kid! i love you so much!!!
Kathy Benson
December 22, 2006
Dear JoAnn & Tom,
With Christmas here I know your hearts are longing for your son. Dave is here, but in your hearts. Just as there is another person in your heart, Jesus, who came to earth this day to save each person. God loves you and will continue to keep you. I hope you can enjoy Christmas and know that you are loved. kb
Tom and JoAnn Stillman
December 2, 2006
It has been six months since Dave left us so unexpectedly. We have all come a long way since that tragic day. We have learned how precious life is and how quickly things can change. We have had the pleasure to meet, and the honor to become close to his wonderful friends. Through their eyes we have come to know the many facets of Dave’s personality that endeared him to others. We have discovered that although the journey is hard, with the healing of time the lives of those left behind can once again move forward.
In honor of Dave’s 23rd birthday, a very special group of people gathered together to share stories and memories. It was amazing to realize that this gathering represented friendships spanning Dave’s entire lifetime – from early childhood to adulthood – and that these good people may never have met had it not been for Dave, yet their friendships continue because of him. We could feel Dave’s presence that night, and could picture him smiling down upon us as we laughed and cried together.
If there is one thing that Dave has taught us all, it is to enjoy life. Live your dreams today for there may not be a tomorrow. As we remember Dave, we should think about his special qualities and try to incorporate them into our own lives. By doing so, Dave’s true spirit will continue to thrive through each and every one of us.
We’d like to thank each person who has sat by our side, who has written or called, who has remembered us in their prayers. Without your support we would have been lost.
“Friends are the angels who lift us up when we believe our wings have forgotten how to fly.”
Reach out to each other and you will find comfort. Reach within yourself and you will find peace.
Dave ~ You were the light of our lives; our shining star. We treasured every moment of your life from your first breath to your last, and can't imagine what life will be like without you there to share it with us. We love you so much, and will miss you forever.
Love,
Mom and Dad
Amanda Avikainen
November 29, 2006
Spending Dave's birthday with Tom, JoAnn, and friends was a very special night. It was wonderful to see how special Dave was by seeing the people who celebrated in memory of Dave. He was such a special person in my life, along with many others. Dave-you are missed and loved dearly.
Mavis and Stan Graven
November 28, 2006
Although I didn't know Dave, knowing his parents is a good clue as to who you were, dear Dave. We missed seeing you, Tom and Joan, even though we passed your corner several times last summer. It will be a top priority next summer. Happy birthday Dave. I know that you know how much you were loved.
sara smith
November 22, 2006
Happy Belated Birthday Dave!!! It was nice to be able to share stories and talk about you last night..... I could feel you there with us all- I miss you more than anyone knows:) Love you and miss ya
Trinette Van Soest
November 22, 2006
Last night a bunch of us got together to celebrate Dave's 23rd Birthday! It was so wonderful to see his parents and all his friends that love him and will always keep him in their hearts! Dave was an extremely special man and even though he is not here to celebrate with us we will always be able to celebrate him and the great memories he shared with many! He touched many hearts in his time here and will always be remembered for that! I love and miss you Dave!
Leah Junker
November 22, 2006
Happy birthday Dave and Happy Thanksgiving....i miss you so much...nothing makes it easier-you were so loved and still are and so sadly missed!!! Love you budday!!!
Cory and Kelli
November 21, 2006
In rememberance of Dave on his 23rd birthday. We love and miss you so much.
Nate and Maria VanSanten
November 21, 2006
As we celebrated Dave's birthday this evening everyone had plenty of stories and happy memories that they shared. Its nice to see that Dave is still within us all. We miss you Dave.
Kathy Benson
November 21, 2006
Dear JoAnn and Tom, today you are celebrating a birthday. I hope it is a birthday of healing and knowing that David is with you in your heart. I pray that God will help heal your hearts. kb
Kathy Benson
September 26, 2006
Dear JoAnn and Tom, I know as the days continue, you both continue to do your jobs and try to cope with your loss. I hope I can be of some support and help as you grieve.
Rubens Feroz
July 21, 2006
Mr. and Mrs. Stillman,
I wanted to pass on my condolences for the loss of your son. Dave was such a kind and caring guy, he is really going to be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Sandy and Brian VanSanten
July 2, 2006
Most nights a litle past 9 PM our phone rings. It's Nate filling us in on his day. We miss hearing the "Adventures of Nate and Dave". Each story ended with a good laugh. They also made alot of plans for their futures. We know his death has left a huge void in the lives of the many people who loved him. So make each day an adventure and have a good laugh and know that somewhere Dave is sharing it with you.
Nate VanSanten
June 29, 2006
Each day on my drive into work and back to home I think about Dave. I think about the projects we would work on and then the bragging of who did more work to each other, I think of the plans we would make after work, whether it be golfing, fishing or working on the so called small projects at home that would always end up with us cutting a hole in something we probably shouldn't have. Everyday I think about Dave and how he was way more than just a friend. He was the guy who could always make you laugh or give you his advice on anything, but most of all he was the guy that was always there for you no matter what. I will never forget you Dave and until I see you next I will be livin' the dream for you.
leah junker
June 28, 2006
i miss you so much dave
Nadine Graven
June 28, 2006
Tom and Joanne,I was so sad to just hear of your terrible loss.
There can be almost no greater pain than losing a child. I pray that your families and memories will get you through. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Nadine Graven
Mavis & Stan Graven
June 25, 2006
Dear Tom and Joan: We just learned about David's accident and his untimely death. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God comfort you during this difficult time. We miss you at the lake and hope that we might visit with you this summer. With our love,
Dan Timm
June 17, 2006
Not a day goes by that I don't look back at all the great memories I had with Dave especially when we were on the water or just sitting around in the stadium seating at Rain Tree with nothing better to do than quench our thirst. Those were the times he would give me all the trash talk I could handle before I had to put him in his place or he would get serious and fill me in with all the latest gossip. "Daves Of Our Lives" There was never a dull moment when the two of us were together but whenever one got close he was sure to stir the pot back up. To Tom an Joann, I am still thinking of you. You raised one hell of a kid. Dave, thanks for all the memories. you were one of my best friends and I look forward to seeing you again. In the meantime, i think its time for you to find me a good fishing spot.
Dexter and Kristin Larsen
May 30, 2006
To Tom and JoAnn and all the members of the Stillman family,
Our hearts go out to you at this time of great loss, and you are in our thoughts and prayers. We are so sorry this tragedy has occured.
Jacob Snell
May 22, 2006
I was Dave's roommate in Duluth for about a year. Though we were never close friends this was deeply saddening. I will never forget how he made me laugh and all the stories that will carry on for the rest of our lives. He was a special guy.
Jean and Don Preslan
May 20, 2006
Dear JoAnne and Tom, Our hearts ache for you in this great loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers! We miss you at the lake. Jean and Don Preslan
Angela Spaeth
May 20, 2006
I am in absolute shock at this tremendous loss. I met Dave at Mesabi College and I knew there was something special about him the day I met him. I will always remember our hours and hours of phone conversations and how good he made me feel. I deeply regret the days we slowly drifted apart. I cannot express how much I will miss him. He is in my thoughts and prayers every day. I love you so much, Dave!!
Lynda Chase
May 19, 2006
Tom and Joanne, our whole family is so sorry to hear about Dave's untimely death. Losing a child is something that no parent should have to go through. I know my mom and dad (Ed and Virginia) were there to welcome him to eternal life and you will be with him again when your work is done here on earth. Love, prayers, and thoughts to both of you! Lynda Olby Chase
Megan Erickson
May 18, 2006
Stillman Family-
Dave was a great guy! I'm happy to have had so many good memories of him and I will miss him. I keep thinking that this didn't happen, but its hard to face reality. I loved him then and will still love him forever.
patty amitrano
May 18, 2006
my thoughts and prayers to dave's family and friends; i did not know dave personally, but he became a very good friend to my daughter while they were taking classes at mesabi--i want you to know how much she thought of your son and good friend, and how very sorry i am for all of you during this very difficult time. may god hold you in his heart and comfort you; you have my deepest sympathy
Kristina Kerchner (Kjellstrom)
May 18, 2006
Denny Kjellstrom told my family about your loss. I am so sorry. My prayers go out to you and your family.
Carolyn Randol
May 18, 2006
Harold and I are sad to have heard the news. Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Cara Sullivan
May 18, 2006
I graduated with Dave at East. Although I didn't know him, I was very sorry to hear about your loss. I know that he will be very missed. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time for you.
May 18, 2006
Tom and JoAnn,
My son was a good friend of Daves for the past couple of years and considered him one of his Best Friends. I know he will miss him very much and will remember him for all the good times they had. I just wanted you to know that I didn't know Dave but as a mother I am saddened by your great loss. May God comfort you in this most difficult time.
Amanda Avikainen
May 17, 2006
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of Dave's family and friends. Since first meeting Dave at Mesabi, he has become a great friend of mine. I will forever cherish the times I have shared with Dave. We have so many memories togther. Dave was a friend that would always be there for me, wanting to talk whenever I needed it, and to just have a good time. I will never forget the moments spent together, his wonderful personality, and his smile. I love you Dave and will never forget you friend!
Donna Arbaugh
May 17, 2006
Dear Tom and JoAnn,
May God's love and care sustain and comfort you at this time of great tragedy.
Your Ojibway friend, Donna Arbaugh
Patty (Cox) Tripp
May 17, 2006
Joanne: I am so sorry to hear about Davids death. Words can't express how saddened I am for you. You and your family are in my prayers at this very sad time.
Julie Evenson
May 17, 2006
I knew Dave for a very short time, but in that time he was a wonderful friend. He was a very special person and was loved by many. My sincere condolences goes out to all of his family and friends.
Matt Beckman
May 17, 2006
Stillman Family,
I played fastpitch softball with Dave and got to know him over the years. He was a great player and even more importantly a great person. He traveled with our team to Nebraska for a tournament and quickly became one of the guys. He was a great person to hang out with and it was always nice to have him at our games.
I as well as our entire league was shocked and saddened to hear of your loss. We will keep you in our prayers.
Maggee Popp
May 17, 2006
Dave was an incredible person. I went to Mesabi CC with him and he was one of the reasons that my time there was unforgetable. His bright eyes, caring smile, and unmistakable laughter were only a few of his great qualities. I am missing Dave terribly and my thoughts and prayers are with his family. Thanks for so many great memories Dave!!!
Tom Dawson
May 17, 2006
Dear Tom & JoAnn,
Words cannot express how saddened I am to hear of your terrible loss. To this day, when I think of David, it's of a quiet 12 year old with great big feet and an equally large smirk on his face. You were both very proud parents with good reason. David was a great kid who grew to be a great young man and he made a difference in a lot of people's lives.
With deepest sympathy.
Tom Dawson
Luther and Adele Lindberg
May 17, 2006
Tom and JoAnn. We are so sorry to hear about David's death. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We miss you at the lake.
Trinette Van Soest
May 16, 2006
To the Stillman family~
I met Dave while going to Mesabi Community College and he instantly became one of my closest friends. He always had that wonderful smile on his face and made me feel better in any given situation. He was an amazing person and had the charm of making everyone smile and feel special! He will be sadly missed and always remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with you all!
GOOD SPIRIT
Adam Nadeau
May 16, 2006
Dave was a teammate, roommate, and most of all a good friend of mine. He was such a fun person and was never in a bad mood. His laugh out loud kinda personality made him so nice to be around. I will miss him.
Nancy Steely
May 16, 2006
Dear Jo and Tom,
We are devastated to learn of David's untimely death. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Wish we could be there.
Nancy Steely and Carol Taylor
Amber Plattner
May 16, 2006
Dave and I went to college together at Mesabi Range. Hanging out with Dave and his roomates who played baseball are my favorite college memories. I will always look back and smile at the fun times we had together. He will be greatly missed.
John Langevin
May 16, 2006
To the family and friends of David: I graduated with Dave at East, but unfortunately didn't know him too well. I just heard the news and I'm really sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers will be with you!
With Sympathy,
Gene, Irene & Corey Shaw
May 16, 2006
JoAnn and Tom, The lake won't be the same without seeing David out doing what he loved to do, Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Your Ojibway Lake Family
Autumn Hommerding
May 16, 2006
I can't remember a time that I needed Dave and he wasn't there for me. He was an incredible friend and always knew how to cheer me up and make me laugh. I know right now Dave is playing baseball or fishing and watching over all of us. I will miss him until I can see him again someday. I'm thinking about you and I miss you so much Dave. Thank you for always being so good to me and I'll never forget you.
Niki Pfutzenretuer
May 16, 2006
Dave was a great friend and I will never forget all the fun times that we had at Mesabi and when we were roommates in Duluth. Daves wise cracks and contagious laugh will always be fresh in in my memory and I am so greatful for the time that I had with him. Tom and Joann you and your family are in my paryers.
I love you & I will miss you Dave!!!
John McKeon
May 16, 2006
Tom and Joe,
Amanda, Kayla, and I are so sorry about your great loss. Even though we cannot be with you durring this difficult time please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
All our Love, The McKeons
Leah Junker
May 16, 2006
Dave was one of the sweetest people i knew....he was there for me to take me to the hospital when my best friend was in a coma from her car accident...i cant believe this happened....i am going to miss him so much and so will everyone else...love you dave
Jesse Pavlich
May 16, 2006
My thoughts and prayers to Dave's family & friends. He was a good guy back in high school.
Carley Erickson
May 16, 2006
To the Stillman Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Dave. I can't remember a time that I didn't have him as a friend. He was one of the nicest guys I have ever met and was always there for anyone in need. His kind words were always able to brighten my day and I will miss him greatly. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
AL & CAROLE FUSCO
May 16, 2006
THE FUSCO FAMILY OF TARPON SPRINGS, FL WOULD LIKE TO EXPRESS THEIR CONDOLENCE'S TO THE FAMILY OF THIS YOUNG MAN. WE HAVE KNOWN JOHN & JOANNE FOR SEVERAL YEARS AND ARE SADDENED TO HEAR OF THIS TRAGIC NEWS. GOD BLESS AND REMAIN STRONG.
Kim Rendulich
May 16, 2006
JoAnn and family, my thoughts and
prayers are with you all and although words cannot ease the pain, remember there will be better days ahead. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Matt Wiitala
May 16, 2006
Dave was a great person and a great friend. He will be missed by all. Thoughts and prayers to his family.
Steve Marden
May 16, 2006
Dear Tom, JoAnn and Stillman Family,
We are so sorry for your devastating loss of David. Our prayers are with you as you face this extreme sorrow.
Love,
Steve Marden and Kari Larson-Marden
Melissa Liljegren
May 16, 2006
Dave was a wonderful friend and was always there in a time of need. He will be greatly missed by all. Landen will always love his "uncle" Dave. God Bless.
Jen and Brett Hoglund
May 16, 2006
Tom and JoAnn, I am so sorry to hear about Dave. I can't believe that this could happen to you guys. I am praying for you to find some peace in this awful tragedy. If there is anything that I can do, please call me.
sara smith
May 16, 2006
I knew Dave about four years but it seems like I knew him my whole life. I will miss our late night talks that kept me up until four/five in the morning, the coffee he always had ready for me when I had early morning training down there, going to lunch/dinner with him, making him go shopping with me even though i know he didnt want to, driving around in the winter looking at christmas lights in duluth, and I will even miss him calling me a "soccer mom" just because of the vehicle i bought!! I know that we all will have a new guardian angel amoung us but it still will be very hard not having him here with us- * I will miss you Dave & look forward to the day when I will see you again *
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