David Scalise

David Gerald Scalise

The world received a tremendous gift on October 19, 1944 with the birth of an amazing man: David Gerald Scalise. Exceptionally creative and loving-with a strong wit and a distinctive sense of humor-Dave's curiosity and passion for life would lead him down diverse paths. He was alternately a publisher, a pilot, a sailor, a cartoonist, and a golfer. His most cherished professional affiliation, however, was his identity as "Professor Dave."

On June 30, 2013, he was honored by the City of San Francisco in a proclamation that beautifully captured Dave as "an individual who has demonstrated the highest standards of all a professor should be." As stated in that proclamation, "whereas, many moons ago ... David came to San Francisco to sow his oats from the small town of Des Moines, Iowa, soon realizing that practicing law would infringe on his recreational time, in 1972 he sought a career that would allow for more of all of his favorite activities-as a faculty member ... in the School of Management in the University of San Francisco. ... David was recognized as a truly great soul who loved his students and sought to cultivate great minds wherever he found them; and ... his students adored him, electing him 'Professor of the Year' decade after decade-more times than any other professor in the history of the school."

Dave had a love of learning that inspired his pursuit of higher education as well as the progression of his career. He completed his BS at the University of Nevada, Reno (majoring in math) and earned a JD from USF in 1973. Shortly after, he joined the faculty in University of San Francisco's MacLaren School of Business, and continued as a professor of business law until his death.

Dave had a unique way of relating to people, which made each person feel special. His friendships were rich and long-standing, some of them stretching to grammar school. But above all else, Dave took great pride in his family. He was an amazing husband, father and grandfather. David is survived by his wife, Wendy Kirk-Scalise. Wendy felt a connection with him from the moment they met; that connection is endless. He is also survived by his daughter, Sierra Scalise (Charles Leynes). Sierra was born at home: from the time he guided Sierra into this world, Sierra and her dad had an untouchable, deep-rooted relationship. They delighted in their time together, sharing a love of sports, animals, and each other. Dave was also cherished by his step-daughters Alexa Koenig (Don Mercer) and Sara Koenig (Rowen Sandel); his sisters Janice Scalise Gatlin (Riley) and Carole Scalise; and his four grandchildren, Zander and Sophie Mercer, and Lukas and Kai Sandel. He was predeceased by his parents, Larry and Zora Ivanovitch Scalise. He touched so many people's lives in such a heartfelt way.

On July 13, 2013, Dave was finally set free from a courageous battle with cancer to embark on yet another grand adventure. We hope he is having the time of his life: what we do know is he will be truly, deeply missed.