Dave moderated an online discussion group on topical news items, and cared very much for helping people there share their views, understand other's viewpoints, and for preserving the accuracy and integrity of facts and opinions presented. He wanted in this way to honor the truth, and worked at doing this zealously.
He strived daily to master his knowledge of computing to obtain certifications that would empower a new career, and would always encourage me to devote myself to improving my station, as well as to connect with my faith. In a place where so many of us forget those we don't interact with regularly, he always reached out to me in stubborn dedicated friendship, to not give up, always motivating me and bolstering my morale however he could, if talking about work, family values, our faith, or about our shared enthusiasm for the works of Tolkien and engaging with online communities. I had one friend who brought me out of my shell, and Dave encouraged me always to share of myself, to reach out when I would otherwise bottle-up, and to allow myself to receive friendship. In this he was ever steadfast for many years, never giving up on me.
Dave had been sending me invitations to a bible study app for months, and started to type out the weekly Gospel readings to share with me via text message so I would see them, knowing that I might not keep up with the app (which I didn't).
On Saturday, April 19th, he shared with me from Genesis chapter 22, where Abraham trusts to Isaac that God himself will provide a sacrifice, as well as from the Gospel of Saint Luke chapter 24 verses 1-12, where angels advise those seeking Jesus in his tomb not to look for him amongst the dead, for he is Risen, followed by his own words "Happy Holy Saturday. He has Risen"! Then on Thursday, Dave shared Jesus' revelation of himself to his followers as the risen Messiah prophesied in the Law, the Psalms, and the Prophets, from Luke 24:44-48. He was zealous about humbly responding to the gift of faith he was given, and sharing the goodness of God's ever abundant love and mercy with me.
Dave had a talent for breaking things down to a simple and approachable level that was undeniable, no matter the topic, be it current evnts, politics, culture, fath, or the arts. His was a love for God's creation that was ever present, a man of hope and conviction to truth. He was noble enough to challenge and offer correction when necessary, yet kind enough to encourage and hope always.
I only learned of my brother's passing a few hours ago, and my and our terrible loss is Heaven's gain. As we come to accept his sudden and unexpected death, we must take comfort that David is with the Lord and Saints praying for us, as he did when he was with us running the race every day. He now enjoys his reward, and we must thank Heaven for his loving presence in our lives.
I had looked forward to talking to him again soon, as I always did, and I will always regret not calling on him or confiding in him more. He was a man after God's heart, and a better friend than I deserved.
I loved Dave dearly -if not half as well as he deserved- and I am not ready to let him go. My heartfelt condolences and prayers for comfort and trust are with his loved ones always.
<3 thanks brother. Pray for us, and God keep you.