David W. Paulson

David Wayne Paulson passed into the next realm on September 1, 2011 at the home of his parents surrounded by family. His strong body and equally strong mind were ravished by a virulent form of cancer that quickly consumed him. Wanting to live, he endured radiation and chemotherapy and all they entail while facing the inevitable with sweet grace and manly grit. He was born October 24, 1959 in Wallace, ID and moved with his parents to Soap Lake at age 2. He attended Soap Lake Schools graduating in 1978. A good athlete, he played school sports, football being his favorite. After high school graduation he went to Alaska and worked on a crabbing boat. Upon his return to Soap Lake he went to work at Lakeview Country Club with Adrian Burd, who became his good friend and mentor. When Mr. Burd retired David was hired as green’s superintendent, nurturing the new nine to maturity, as well as competently maintaining the old nine. He worked in this capacity at Lakeview County Club for many years. An avid reader who always had a book at hand, he also wrote poetry and prose. Being well read, he quickly became a favorite of his literature professor while attending Big Bend Community College. Quiet, introspective and unpretentious, he had a diverse group of friends, being equally comfortable discussing literature and philosophy with professors or teaching a new hire how to mow greens. David loved the gold fields in Nome, Alaska, spending time there working as a mechanic and mining for gold. The remote beauty of the area, the lure of gold waiting to be found, and the camaraderie of other miners made the experience meaningful to him. He was a true “Mr. Fix-It” keeping things operational at his parent’s home. His natural mechanic ability led him to an affection for older model VW’s, his camper van being his latest acquisition. Searching for the answers to life’s riddles he began to practice meditation and attended several sessions at Northwest Vipassana Center in Onalaska, Washington, and Mumbai, India. At the time illness struck, he was employed at NWVC, finding the quiet, peaceful atmosphere much to his liking. Practicing meditation was helpful to him in dealing with his illness. He is survived by his two sons, Eric and Ian, a source of pride and love; a beautiful granddaughter, Evelyn, whom he hoped to see grow up; his parents, Kaye, the mom he teased and taught, Rich, the dad he so admired; Dan, the brother bonded since birth; and his sister in law Carrie, cherished for her capable, caring ways. At his request, there will be no public memorial service. A private family service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are in care of Kayser’s Chapel & Crematory, Moses Lake. Godspeed, dear David, Godspeed.

David W. Paulson

October 20, 1959 - September 1, 2011