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David Best Obituary
David Walker Best was born February 24, 1942 to James and Doris Best in Cincinnati, OH. After graduating from Walnut Hills High School, Dave went on to study at Wesleyan University and Indiana University, obtaining his MD in 1971. He then served as a Nephrologist in the US Navy until 1979 before embarking on a long and fulfilling career in private practice. Dr. Best was one of the last individual dialysis center owners in the country, held privileges and had patients at eight local hospitals, and became Virginia Beach General's first Ethics Director. As a physician, Dave was deeply committed to the care and dignity of the patient, and worked tirelessly to unravel the mystery of each person's condition in order to help them achieve a longer and happier life.
Dave loved the arts in all forms. He spent many evenings unwinding by playing the piano, and sang for many years with the Schola Cantorum and the St. Aidan's church choir. His home and business were full of art, and many arts organizations benefited from his long term support.
Another great love was flying his Beechcraft Bonanza as a private pilot. From trips around the country, to afternoons "punching holes in clouds," to his involvement in the Quiet Birdmen, Dave loved to take to the sky.
Finally, Dave Best was a teller of stories, a connoisseur of puns, and a conversationalist. There may not have been anything he enjoyed more than talking to people about things that mattered, and with his caring, sincerity, and humor, he touched the lives of many.
Dr. David Best was preceded in death by his parents James and Doris Best and his previous wife Susan Best. He is survived by his wife Katharine Best, his son Jonathan Best (wife Stacey), granddaughter Bailey Best, his brother Jonathan Best (wife Peggy), his sister Katie Smiley (husband Les), and several nieces, nephews, and extended family.
We would like to welcome friends and family to a Celebration of Life at St. Aidan's Church (3201 Edinburgh Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23452) on Saturday, February 3rd at 11am.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
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4 Entries
Luisa Kropcho
March 24, 2024
Dr. Best has remained in my heart and thoughts over many years. I met him while working as a new RN at Virginia Beach General Hospital. He was calm and kind, and I felt comfortable calling him to ask questions and give updates on all his patients. He could often be heard playing piano (quite brilliantly) in the background. I went on to apply and be accepted into Medical School, and it was in no small part due to Dr. West´s inspiration. I am lucky to have met him and am grateful that our lives intersected briefly yet meaningfully. I offer my deepest sympathies to his family.
Tim and Terry Gudge
January 31, 2024
Dave singing the National Anthem at my retirement from the Navy / Katharine and Dave Best onboard USS WISCONSIN, Nauticus, Norfolk VA 12 March 2008
Geoffrey
January 30, 2024
He was a good person
Tim Gudge
January 29, 2024
Dave Best was a dear friend, sage counsel, benefactor to our wine shop and a great and honorable man. My wife Terry and I never heard him utter a disparaging word against someone and he was always there to help. His attitude towards life, his quick wit and knowledgeable palate were always a welcome addition to any gathering. We'll miss you terribly, Dave. Fair winds and following seas.
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