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It seems almost impossible to once again be paying tribute to yet another dear classmate who has been taken from us at such a young age. John Davis "Dave" Bachman, age 48, passed away at his home on April 20, 2006 in Bristol, marking the end of life for one of the most unique, interesting students in our Class of '74. We will always remember Dave for being a "one of a kind" fellow...a true friend and companion whose love of music, astronomy, photography, printing and steam engines made him the wonderfully diverse person he was.
Sitting at Dave's funeral, I began reminiscing about growing up on Holston Avenue with Dave (and Val DeVault) living across the street. I next pictured Dave marching proudly in his THS band uniform and representing the Vikings during the half time performances. More recently, I was reminded of the overwhelming strength, love and support that Dave gave his beloved wife, Missy, during her struggle with cancer. Less than a year ago in our class newsletter, we sent our condolences to Dave after Missy passed away. And while Dave's leaving this world is devastating, tragic and sad, there is some great comfort to others, and me, knowing that Dave and Missy are now reunited forever.
Many of you have asked if Dave had been sick and have inquired about his sudden death. Dave died of natural causes, sitting peacefully at his computer desk writing emails and communicating with friends and family which he loved to do. There are many people who saw Dave and talked to him often, especially noticing that his sincere grief over losing Missy was taking its toll. They had a beautiful marriage and a devoted relationship and her passing left a void in Dave's life so large that it was hard to comprehend. There are many people who will always believe that our sweet, kind, gentle Dave Bachman passed away from a broken heart, only to have it quickly mended upon his eternal reunion with Missy.
Please take a moment to remember Dave and his family in your thoughts and prayers.
~ written by Ronan Dougherty King
It is with great sadness we realize the passing of our friend,
our companion and our courageous classmate, Earl Starbuck.
Earl lost his battle to cancer on Friday, August 26, 2005 at Wellmont
Bristol Regional Medical Center where he had been a patient since last
December. Earl is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Sue, and
their son, Jake, his sister, Mary Elizabeth, and her husband,
Randy, and numerous other relatives and friends.
I have had the opportunity to spend a great deal of time
with Earl and his family over these past few months. No matter how
severe his pain or how uncomfortable he was, he never took the
smile from his face or the kindness from his words. He was
more than courageous...he was a true inspiration to those
around him. His faith was so strong and unwavering that he
graciously accepted God's plan for him and fought this battle
against cancer with all the might and strength he had.
His concern was never for himself, but for his wife and child.
With the assistance of Cindy Boyd, an account has been
established through Fidelity Investments for Jake so that he
will have the funds necessary to attend college later. We are
asking that classmates wishing to honor Earl with a memorial
gift consider making a donation to this special fund. Gifts may
be sent to:
Fidelity Investments
P. O. Box 770001
Cincinnati, Ohio 45277-0015
On the check, please include the following:
Account: #619-974161 for Earl Jacob Starbuck, Jr.,
Unique 2015
~ written by Ronan Dougherty King
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