David French Sauer

In commemorating David as we are here, I think it should be said that he loved the philosophical tenents of Buddhism which was linked to his studies of Oriental Art, in which he was an expert, and his own good and joyous nature.
I remember once mentioning to him that some Harvard astronomers suggested that, perhaps, the "big bang" theory was not likely because of the fairly even, not centrally organized, nature of stellar matter. David quickly and in a serious tone replied "It is the Buddha nature of the Universe" and like the Buddha he was a man of great love and compasssion and I know that I and many others will remember him that way. It was the "Buddah nature of the Universe" that brought him to us and is there to receive him.

I was shocked and saddened to hear of David's passing. He was a fountain of intelligent insights, I could almost hear him speaking as I read about him here, articulating each word in his unique way, looking at you to see if you really understood what he was telling you.
I had the good fortune to have studied painting with David at RPI/VCU in the early sixties. I last saw him at an Orchid Show in Williamsburg...he took out time then to help me with a computer problem I was having which is why intelligence and kindness are the two words that first come to mind in thinking of David.
Oh! David you will be missed and always, so fondly remembered.

Your Friend and Student Always,
David F.Alexick

I was sadden to hear of David"s death. We were playmates over 70 years ago when we both lived in Hampton Gardens. Eddy joins me in sending condolences to David"s family. John and Eddy Phillips

Seeing and talking with David on his trips to San Diego was always very, very special. I will miss his funny stories, his insights, his wisdom. What an amazing human being.
And Debbie, how lucky you both were to enjoy one another for so many years :)

Certainly, David Sauer has and will continue to be an inspiring influence in my life.

I studied drawing with David at RPI and met some interesting people through him, the Pippins among others. Although I haven't been in touch since before he and Deb married, he's in my thoughts constantly when I look at his painting on my wall. I take it back... I did see him and Deb at Baskin Robbins once when I was getting a car wash next door. Was that 25 years ago? My condolences to Deb, who may not know who I am. 2 great and different artists in one week... David Sauer and Andrew Wyeth.

We will miss David greatly. Perhaps we shall all meet once more on Gregory Bald. He and Debby have been such wonderful friends to all of us in the Rhododendron Society.
Ken McDonald, Jr.

A patient man! He loved working with students, and helping them understand complex ideas i.e. The Zone System at VCU. Always he wore a smile and shared his enthusiasm with every individual he knew. A true source of energy and, intelligence.

David consistently displayed his curiosity of life, interest in others, and love for Debby. He was forever asking, giving, and sharing. He made us each feel better in a fascinating variety of ways. I will never forget David's reassuring smile.

Truly that rare combination of gentleman and scholar. I will never forget his almost childlike sense of joy coupled with the sophistication of a first class intellect. He will be greatly missed.