David R. Carmen

David R. Carmen

AGE: 82 • Boise, ID

The Reverend Dr. David Ralph Carmen, of Boise, ID, passed away on Sunday, April 27, at the age of 82. David was born and raised in Bound Brook, NJ, the son of Ralph C. and Erma E. H. Carmen. He received his early education in Bound Brook schools and graduated from Drew University and its Theological School in Madison, NJ. He later earned a Doctor of Ministry degree from Chicago Theological Seminary. Ordained a Congregational minister in 1957, he served churches in New Hampshire, Vermont, Alaska, Wisconsin, Indiana and Illinois over a 40 year period. In 1959 he married the former Marilyn Noyes, who survives him.

Two brothers, Michael, of Bound Brook, and Lloyd, of Hartwell, GA, two daughters, Catherine (husband Linden Boice), of Boise and Rebecca (husband Philip Sicks), of Brooklyn, NY, and three granddaughters, Megan and Linnea Boice, of Boise, and Rosa Sicks, of Brooklyn, also survive him. His parents and a third brother, Richard, predeceased him. David had a love of God, his family and the outdoors all of which provided many opportunities for adventures. In 1964 he drove by himself from New Hampshire to Alaska along the AlCan Highway during the winter to serve the First Congregational Church of Anchorage. His family has many fond memories of summer vacations spent traveling cross country, camping, telling stories and singing along the way. He shared his love of the outdoors with whatever community he found himself in by organizing family and youth camps, usually recruiting colleagues (and sometimes his wife!) as counselors. There rarely was a campfire ring that didn't provide hours of entertainment; s'mores, songs and silly stories were abundant! During retirement in Idaho David and Marilyn had time to explore the Western U.S., cook with a Dutch oven and teach their granddaughters how to fish. David will be truly missed by all who knew and loved his gentle ways.

A memorial service was held at Wright Congregational UCC Church on Tuesday, May 13. Donations may be made in David's memory to Wright Congregational UCC, 4821 Franklin Road, Boise, ID 83705.