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Scott R Thigpen
February 4, 2022
Miss you, my friend. After all these years, I will use your simple wisdom ("there´s justified, and then there´s effective and they aren´t always the same thing") with my staff. Your absence will always be felt.
Vincent and Viola
February 3, 2022
Dave: You are SO near.....all the time. Could never forget you. Not today, not tomorrow. Not ever. We continue to live love and laugh as life rolls on. Your daughters are beautiful and Sara is still in the grip of a life long hug from all who love her. We raise a glass to you, "Davey in the Navy!"
Gary Kreeger
February 10, 2021
One of my favorite memories of Dave was from the Left Bank in Paris when Katie and I were traveling with Dave in 1989. It was a beautiful June evening and we had just finished dinner. Stepping into the street we saw a Greek deli selling baklava from their window and decided that we had found desert. Katie and I each got a piece, which we began to enjoy immediately. Turning around to check on Dave, he had just left the window with his TWO giant pieces of baklava and was standing with one in each hand while honey dripped onto his shoes. The best part was the enormous grin on his face.
Ann Halliday
February 3, 2021
Still keeping his family in my prayers.
July 4, 2016
Missing Dave always and wishing his family peace.
Jim Caitlan
March 16, 2015
Dear Sarah - Few people have made as lasting an impression on me as Dave. I'd arrive at the apartment Sunday night from Nashville dog-tired, but we'd stay up talking until midnight about music, or how little I understood about mathematics, but often he just talked about you and the plans you were making to get married. Dave was always cheerful, but never more happy than when you were in his thoughts.
It's not surprising how often the phrase "He was a good man" appears in these remembrances. Dave was one of the very few good men in every respect I've ever known. The world is a warmer place for his having been here, and an emptier place for his leaving. You and are girls will always be in our hearts.
Cole Cowden
December 16, 2014
I just stumbled onto this horrible news. Dave was a class act, and an extremely good friend. I had just reconnected with Dave a couple of years ago, after many years, and after a minute or two, we were right back in our twenties. Like Mike said below, we were roommates together in our twenties, all trying to get through the last stage of Flight School. We were the first class in awhile to all make it through it together, only because we looked out for each other, and Beaker (Higgins then) could always be counted on to help me with academics. We went through SERE school together; nothing like being starved and beaten together makes young men bond. I still remember the winging party we had, and for some odd reason Dave put a sack of potato chips on his head. After a few seconds, every sack of snacks available was on someone's head with barely a beat missing in conversation. Trendsetter! To his kids: someday, reach out to your Dad's Navy buddies, and collect stories about your Dad....you will not regret you did. He was awesome! I'll pass this sad news along on other Naval Aviation specific e-mail lists. What a great friend and human being. He always made me feel good, and the world is a smaller place without him. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family.
Cole Cowden
Tom Hogan
September 19, 2014
My parents just came visiting and brought some DeMatha magazines and I was shocked to learn of David's passing. One of my first recollections in HS was that a lot of these kids were really smart and old Wilson was right there. No doubt that he was the val. He and I hooked up on facebook to catch up but I just looked and it was 5 years ago. That sends a message- keep in touch. My best wishes for his family- he was a great guy gone too soon.
Mike Shearn
September 3, 2014
Damn. This sucks. Four of us shared a house together in 1984 as we went through the "RAG": Cole Cowden, Gary Krieger, Dave (he was "Higgins" then) and yours truly. He played oboe and the cello, I had a banjo and a guitar. "Duelling Banjos" with a cello was not something you hear every day. I was just googling to find out whatever happened to him and saw this horrible news. My condolences to the family and all his friends.
Ann Halliday
September 1, 2014
Dear Sara, Speaking to someone in Cherry Hill today, I was reminded of your beautiful wedding, and all the festivities; including Scottish night. I looked on line to re-connect and found this heartbreak. David and I were second cousins (our grandparents were brother and sister). You, Polly, and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Peace be with you.
Loretha & Roy Riales
July 30, 2014
We remember Dave from visiting Clay at their Escondido home. May God's love and your precious memories comfort you now in your sorrow.
Chris Benton
April 17, 2014
I worked a little bit with David at Booz Allen and he was my manager for a short period of time. But I remember conversations with Dave discussing big world problems. As others have said, Dave had that rare talent to combine intellect with a sense of empathy. By that I simply mean he cared about the effect or impact of solutions upon others. He did want to make the world a better place. We lost David Wilson too soon, but he made the world a better place for the 53 years he was here.
Jerry Furrh
April 2, 2014
Dave "Beaker" and I served together in VAW-116. He was a wonderful squadron mate and the type of person everyone wanted to be around. Full of laughter and joy, he always kept us laughing. My deepest sympathy goes out to Sara and the family.
H. Ray Lanier
March 9, 2014
Sara,
Wishing you Peace and Blessings during this difficult time.
DEBORAH CORAM
March 5, 2014
Sara,
I just learned about your husband, and I am very sorry. I pray that the memories of your courtship and marriage and two lovely children will bring you comfort. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Deborah Coram
Acadia Roessner
March 5, 2014
Sending deepest sympathies and prayers for your family.
J Belkora
March 4, 2014
I knew Dave at Stanford Engineering when we were both getting PhDs. He was a good person who lived a good life and made a positive difference in the world. That is certainly what I aspire to for myself and my children. Dave was universally regarded as both smart and kind. Sincere condolences.
February 27, 2014
Sara,
You may recall the years that Beeker spent between SFO and NAS Fallon. He was the glue that held together a bunch of senior Naval Aviators. He was always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everything was done "just right". We were all so proud to see Dave become so successful in his Naval career. We will always remember his quick wit and sense of humor. You already know, he was one in a million and will be missed. Fair winds and following seas in his journey....
V/r, Smurf, His Rotorness, Darth, Hop Sing, Knobber, Butt, Sid V, Foghorn, Moth, Claw, Polecat, and hundreds of others from the Navy family.
Jim Sweeney
February 23, 2014
Sara:
I was devastated to hear about Dave's untimely passing. Although in the last years we saw each other only irregularly, I feel deeply connected to him. He and I worked together closely for the entirely of his PhD program, and especially closely while he was doing his dissertation research. But he was a particular challenge to me: it took me two or three years to get him to sometimes call me "Jim" instead of "Sir"! Yet we would talk whenever he was facing important career decisions. He was forthright, honest, warm, considerate, an he always was interested in doing work that would be good for his country and good for the world. I will very much miss him. And I wish you and the girls the best as you go through this difficult time of grieving and adjustment. I know he will always be in your heart.
Jim
jossalyn ford
February 23, 2014
We were so sorry to hear of the loss of the love of your life. Remembering your great love story today and always.
February 18, 2014
Dear Sara, Christina and Kathleen,
Marie and I are profoundly saddended by your loss. Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. We know you are blessed with a large and wonderfully supportive family and are sure the comfort they provide will ease some of your pain. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Marie Lihotz and Lou Procacci
Moorestown, NJ
Sharon Boddie
February 18, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Dave for only about six months early last year, and I must say that his humble and helpful demeanor belied his intelligence and accomplishments. We knew him to be brilliant and had nicknamed him Dr. Dave. I would have conversations about his daughter's love of my little ponies and other girl stuff (I have three daughters) To his wife and daughters, know that he truly loved and cherished you.
Ray Sealey
February 18, 2014
My condolencense to you in your loss. I hope you find comfort and peace for your familly. Dave was a great guy, a leader, and innovator. God Bless!!!
-Ray Sealey
USN retired
CAPT Randy Bannister, USN(ret)
February 17, 2014
David was one of my students at the E-2 training squadron at NAS Miramar. While I don't remember all the students during my time there I certainly remember Dave. He was a good man and good student who put his exceptional intellect to good use. I have great respect and appreciation for his service to the E-2 Community, the Navy and this country. We are very sorry for your loss. You will be in our thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.
Carol Duffy
February 17, 2014
We are so sorry to hear of this sad news. Joan Hoenes informed us. I met you at Cynthia and Mark's awhile ago. We are very good friends with the Procacci family and want you to know our thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Andrea Burnside
February 14, 2014
Sara, Extending deepest sympathy for you in your loss. And hoping that comfort and peace come to you.
February 14, 2014
I taught David as a freshman at DeMtha. He was a brilliant student with a wonderfully dry sense of humor, quick to deliver a quip that brought a smile to my face. He will be remembered in my prayers. Fr. Aaron M. Dowdell, O.SS.T.
Lois & Anthony Tedeschi
February 14, 2014
You & your family will be in our thoughts & prayers during this sad time.
John Farrell
February 14, 2014
I graduated with David on May 31, 1978 from DeMatha. Obviously his academic achievements speak for themselves but since I'm an United States Air Force retiree I'm especially grateful for his service to his country. To the family you have my deepest sympathies. David lived the DeMatha motto as "a scholar and a gentleman " Godspeed
Mary (Sue) McClain
February 14, 2014
David & I have been friends since 1975. We met in PG County Youth Orchestra where he played Principal Cello and I played 2nd Oboe & English Horn (and then he played oboe there after Jane & I graduated-still amazes me he was so good at 2 difficult instruments!!). What an amazing man he was - intelligent, witty and a real gentleman. I keep a set of letters he wrote to me while I was in college that I'll get out when I'm feeling blue because they are SO funny! I was lucky to reconnect with him in the past couple years because of Facebook and I am so grateful and blessed because of it (I only wished I could have met you and the girls, Sara!). That's when I found out we shared another love - cycling! I have enjoyed seeing his beautiful daughters grow and learn via FB as well! I hope that the snowy roads will not keep me from the services on Sat!!! My prayers and love to you from PA, Sara, Christina and Kate!
Bob O'Connell '78
February 13, 2014
I remember David as a really really nice guy, mild mannered, always helpful and friendly...never a bad word to say about anyone. A true DeMatha gentleman. And that's a good thing. RIP from a fellow '78 classmate.
Fr. Ed Owens, OSST
February 13, 2014
I taught Dave in sophomore year at DeMatha. He shows a keen intellect and gift for critical thinking that he took to to life. His wry wit and gentle presence made everyone he met in life feel respected and heard. My prayers and condolences to his family.
Fr. Ed Owens, OSST. Baltimore, MD
Kimara Himchak
February 13, 2014
Your husband was a very accomplished man, but his greatest accomplishment (I'm sure) was his beautiful family. God bless you always.
Erin Lindheim
February 12, 2014
Dave was a joy to work with during my tenure at Rapt. I will always remember him for his kind heart and wicked sense of humor. I'm so sorry for your loss. He will be greatly missed by many. Sending much love to your family.
Dana Monzo
February 12, 2014
My dear cousin Sara we were so saddened to hear of the sudden loss of your beloved husband. We only had a few brief moments to enjoy Dave company but I feel I have lost a brother. I find confort in the fact that Dave's legacy will live on in your two beautiful daughters.
February 12, 2014
Sara, sending you and the girls my sympathies. xo Anja
Emily & David Copeland
February 12, 2014
This has truly dampened our hearts. No words can express our condolences for my family's loss. Polly, Sarah W., Pete, Sara P., Christina, and Katie are constantly on our minds. We send you strength in hopes it will help you through this difficult time. Growing up with Cousin Dave was a gift in itself. As we all know, he was smart, witty, charming, and just an all around wonderful person. He will truly be misses by all that knew him. We are sending warm thoughts your way. We love you all. <3
ben sanford
February 12, 2014
Our sincerest thoughts and prayers are with you. I have never heard of premature coronary disease in our family.
I have dis=cussed this w mother
Ben and all the Sanfords
Fred Logan
February 12, 2014
CAPT Wilson was truly an outstanding person. It was honor to serve with him. He truly will be missed. My prayers are with his family.
Gary Kreeger
February 11, 2014
A true friend that will be dearly missed.
Thanks for all the good memories.
With Much Love,
Gary and Katie Kreeger
Carl Zeigler
February 11, 2014
Dave was one of the nicest people that I have known over the years. He went out of way to help you and would provide the best guidance. He will be missed by all. Rest in peace.
Candace Smith
February 11, 2014
This is very sad news and our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Barbara Finch
February 11, 2014
I met Dave many years ago and we both played in the PG County Sr. Youth Orchestra. We lost touch after graduating college. I was just thinking about Dave a little over a week ago, hoping he was having a good life, only to hear about his sudden passing. I am so happy that he found great joy and love with you, Sara, and your children, though deeply saddened that you didn't have more years with him. He was and is a Good Man. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. God bless you, Dave!
Renu Bhatt
February 11, 2014
Dave was one of a kind. I remember working with him on a project at Rapt back when he was commuting between DC and SF. He basically worked all the time, since Sara was in DC. One weekend I was baking brownies at home and thought that it wasn't fair that I was baking brownies while he was hard at work (or hardly working) at the office. I brought him a couple of brownies, which he devoured in the blink of an eye. I asked him if he'd eaten at all that day. Nope, he hadn't. Aside from maybe some beef jerky, which the Rapt kitchen stocked. Because he was at work all the time in SF, he would regale us with highlights of concerts he overheard at (then) Pac Bell Stadium, right down the street from the office. I enjoyed hearing what he could share from his Reserve time in San Diego. My older son still wears one of the Captain hats from Dave's 50th birthday party as dress-up! Dave is remembered so fondly!
Khedija Kharouf Bitar
February 11, 2014
Captain Dave... A big brain, an immense heart and a great smile.. Will always remember your passion and dedication as well as your grace and humor. It's too early for you to go... Rest in peace.
February 11, 2014
Dave was a wonderful person and he will be missed by those of us lucky enough to have known him. Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time.
Bessy Guevara
February 11, 2014
I'm very sorry for your loss. My sincerest sympathies to you and your family.
Bob Wallace
February 11, 2014
My thought and prayers to the family. Dave was a great man, friend and co-worker. I already miss him dearly and will never forget how easily he was able to put things in their proper perspective. He left us too soon. May His Perpetual Light always shine upon you.
Aunt JOJO n Uncle Tommy Rhile
February 11, 2014
Again Sara Our thoughts n Prayers are with you. Remembering Our "Captain Dave at our family gatherings Dave n I would hug n say hello doing our "Donald duck voices n just laugh..laugh..laugh. Captain Dave asked Uncle Tommy how he makes such a perfect knot in his tie..so Dave made a perfect knot which made Captain Dave feel complete...We will miss u Captain Dave ...RIP.
Michael Berger
February 11, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with Dave's family. Dave was a great friend and colleague. He will be remembered fondly by everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. I am so sorry for your loss.
Darla Kimbrough
February 11, 2014
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Richard Goffi
February 11, 2014
We were so sorry to hear of your loss of someone so special. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Scott Thigpen
February 11, 2014
Dave: The Booz Allen family feels your absence so much. Your humor, grace, optimism and ability to find the simple, elegant solution to a problem will be missed around here. Godspeed my friend...
Nat Bottigheimer
February 11, 2014
Eve and I send our deepest sympathies and warmest wishes.
Devon Seibert
February 11, 2014
Sending love and prayers for a great loss. He was a wonderful, charming, witty gentleman. He will be greatly missed. My heart goes out to the whole family. Sara, you and the girls remain in my daily prayers.
February 11, 2014
Dave was brilliant student and a gifted musician at DeMatha Catholic HS. He will be fondly remembered in the halls of his beloved alma mater. Rest in peace fellow classmate.
Thomas Ponton '78 (David's year)
Director of Development
DeMatha Catholic HS
Viola and Vincent Llewellyn
February 11, 2014
Dave was my supervisor at CRA. Sara was my friend and co-conspirator before they met. The love they had for each other was legendary and inspiring. They took us into their home on an extended visit once. Dave made us more than welcome. His leaving us like this is a like a rip in the fabric of our world. There will be no mending this one, I am afraid. We wish him Godspeed in the beyond and loving comfort to Sara and the girls. He was an extraordinary man of rare character and superior abilities.
Jason Valenstein
February 10, 2014
Most heartfelt condolences and sympathies for your loss. Dave was a true role model for me and countless others. Thinking of your family In this difficult time.
diane and bill honan
February 10, 2014
Dear Polly, Sally and Pete, The loss of Dave, your precious son and brother is impacting all of us in such an extraordinary way. We send our deepest sympathy to each of you at this time and we pray to Our Lord to comfort you and strengthen you as each day passes. We will see you this week. all our love and prayers, Diane, Bill, Matthew and Sarah Whittemore, Cait and Natalie Honan.
Tima McKinney
February 10, 2014
CAPT Wilson was an amazing champion of the Navy no matter the rank. This is a great loss. Prayers for the family to use the loving memories to help lift the heavy grief in their heart.
Jennifer Green
February 10, 2014
Deepest sympathies. Prayers for you and your family.
Raphael Alfred
February 10, 2014
Very sad to hear this news. Your family is in our prayers.
Stacey Gosman
February 10, 2014
Capt Wilson was always very nice and supportive to the enlisted. I am sad to hear of his passing. Our prayers are with his wife and children.
LaRisa Alexander
February 10, 2014
You and your family are in our prayers.
Joanne Offutt
February 9, 2014
Polly- I am heart broken at David' passing. As you know he was always one of my favorite kids. I will try to get to the viewing.
My love to you, Pete and Sally
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