David Waddell

COSBY - It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of David Drummond Waddell, who died peacefully on December 3, 2024, after a courageous battle with leukemia. David was 82 years old.

Born in Glasgow, Scotland on July 29, 1942, David grew up on a farm in the village of Corsock, where he was the eldest child of Gwendolyn May Waddell and Andrew Cowan Waddell. Along with his siblings, Rosalind and Peter, David experienced a childhood steeped in the beauty and ruggedness of the Scottish countryside, which would stay with him throughout his life.

David's adventurous spirit was evident early on. He joined the British military, training at Mill Hill in London. He served as a communications specialist with the Royal Engineers, with postings in Germany and Kenya. In Kenya, David's military career took him to the heart of East Africa, a place he would come to call home for many years. After retiring from the military with honors, David stayed in Kenya, working as a bush pilot for over two decades. Flying Cessnas 401, 402, and 404, he traversed the African skies, transporting tourists, biologists - including the renowned Jane Goodall - and other adventurers into the wilds of the African bush. For David, these years were among the most formative of his life, and he often spoke of his time in Africa as a grand adventure, often recalling at family dinners flying over the Ngorongoro Crater at sunrise and racing through the Serengeti.

David's life was marked by his love of travel, exploration, and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life - whether it was with fellow pilots, artists, biologists, mercenaries, or the local communities in the places he called home. His adventurous spirit led him to live in Spain and the United States, where he explored new chapters, including a brief stint as an insurance salesman, delivery driver and even a video store owner.

It was in the United States that David met Linda, the love of his life while trying to sell her insurance at her computer store in Georgia. They were married in January 1991 in California, and together they had a beautiful family. David embraced his new role as a stepfather to Linda's daughter, Nicole, and in 1991, they welcomed their daughter, Sarah May Lynn Waddell. A few years later, in 1998, their third daughter, Megan Elaine Waddell, was born.

David and Linda's journey together also included the opening of House of Douglas Scottish Bakery, which they ran for nearly 30 years, becoming beloved figures in the Scottish-American community. Together, they traveled to Scottish and Irish festivals across the country, selling bread, shortbread, cakes and pastries. The bakery became a labor of love, and David was known for his no-nonsense attitude, sharp wit and deep devotion to his family.

Through all the ups and downs of life, David was first and foremost a family man. His daughters remember him as the best dad they could ever ask for - one who instilled in them a love of learning, adventure and strength. David taught his children to be brave and to approach life with an open mind and a sense of curiosity. His love for his family was fierce, and he will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

David's final years were spent fighting leukemia with the same courage and resilience he brought to every aspect of his life. He fought to the very end, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

David is survived by his wife, Linda; daughters Nicole, Sarah, and Megan; son Christopher and grandchildren Ella, Lotta, and Till; his siblings Rosalind and Peter; and countless friends and extended family around the world. He was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife, Juta.

A celebration of David's life will be held in the near future, where his family and friends will gather to share memories, laughter, and gratitude for a life well-lived.

David Waddell lived a life full of adventure, passion, and love. He leaves behind a legacy that will endure in the hearts of those who knew him. His family will carry forward the lessons he taught them - of living life with courage, kindness, and an unbreakable sense of adventure. He will be missed deeply.

He loved fiercely, he lived boldly, and he will be remembered forever.

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