David Lee Taylor, 68, died peacefully at home in Hood River surrounded by family on Saturday, March 30th, 2013.

Dave was born in Lewiston, Idaho in 1944 to Glenn and Veda Taylor. He grew up in Clarkston, Washington and graduated from Clarkston High School in 1962.

He attended Lewis and Clark State College in Lewiston and then transferred to the University of Idaho, majoring in business and marketing.

Dave began his career in the grocery business as a boxboy at McPherson’s in Clarkston, becoming an assistant manager at Rosauers in Moscow, Idaho and finally a store manager in Spokane, Washington and then Hood River. He retired from Rosauers after 25 years with the company. After that, Dave co-owned the Windmaster Market for a few years and then worked part-time at the Gorge Fly Shop before retiring.

Although successful in all his endeavors, Dave found the most pride in his family. He married his high school sweetheart, Linda (Riggs). The couple, who have been married for 51 years, raised three sons. Dave’s family, which now includes four grandchildren, was the light of his life.

Dave’s first love was his family, but the outdoors was a close second: rock climbing, camping with his family, skiing, and climbing every mountain in the Northwest (some more than once!). Dave enjoyed many outings on the Hood and Deschutes Rivers, and Omak Lake with his sons and friends. To many he was known as “Deschutes Dave” because he loved fishing that river so much. Dave was very proud to have an article he had written published in the May 1, 2000 issue of Fly Fisherman magazine called “Fly Fishing Idaho Kelly Creek”.

Dave had many other passions as well. He was involved in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts when his sons were young. He was also one of the original organizers of Cooper Spur Race Team after the Newman family turned it over to the parents. Some of his other many interests included photography, cooking, reading, history, art, geology, music, and discussing politics. Dave had a life-long zest for learning.

Dave is survived by his wife Linda and their three sons: Scott (and wife Uli) of Seattle, Rob of Hood River, and Dan (and wife Renelle) of Bend; and by four grandchildren: Rosa, Lily, Henry, and Nolan. He is also survived by his brother Norman (and wife Dana) of Seattle, as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister Barbara, and nephew Mike.
A celebration of his life will be held at 2pm on Saturday, April 6th at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Hood River. Pastor Jeff Mueller, who Dave greatly admired and was a faithful friend, will officiate.

Arrangements are being made by Anderson’s Tribute Center. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Clarkston High School class of 1962 Scholarship Fund, the Heart of Hospice Foundation, or charity of choice—in care of Anderson’s Tribute Center. Please visit our website to leave a note of condolence for family. www.andersonstributecenter.com