Dad

My stepmom did a beautiful job writing an extended obituary for Dad. She put so much thought and love into it, I thought I would share:

David Bruce Parkinson

November 25, 1953 – November 12, 2011

After six years of a determined and courageous battle against cancer, Dave died at home in the arms of his wife and best friend. With great sorrow, he leaves behind his loving and beloved wife Lisa, his four children Erin (Teage), Sean, Lindsey, and David, grandchildren Dylan, Lucas, and Emery, and brothers Ken(Judy) and Roger(Lisa). Dave attended Highline High School, where he played baseball and the saxophone, participated in Hi-Liners Musical Theater, and formed many life-long friendships. He was proud to be a University of Washington alumnus, having earned a master’s degree in civil engineering. He worked for the Coachella Valley Water District for two years, followed by ten years with the Seattle Water Department, then spent the remainder of his career as a Water Resources Manager with CH2M Hill.

He loved history, travel, fine wine, Hawaii, the ocean, Husky football, Mariners baseball, and over-the-top Christmas light displays. Most of all, he loved being a husband, father, and grandfather. When Dave became interested in something, he would immerse himself in it: An interest in American history led him to read about it voraciously, including a book, in chronological order, about every American president. After that, he had started the process of reading about all the English kings. An interest in wines led him to visit dozens of wineries and begin a collection. His enjoyment of Christmas lights led him to create holiday displays that are regularly featured in newspapers and attract thousands of visitors.

When he did something, he did it big. Dave was grateful to have had enough time to cross some things off his ''bucket list'': He had been monitoring the progress of the development of the Chevy Volt for 5 years, hoping to be able to own one some day; earlier this year he became the proud owner of the first Volt in Washington. For one game during each of the last two seasons, he rented a luxury suite at Safeco Field and watched a Mariners game in style with his extended family. Two years ago he traveled to Europe for the first time, bringing his children with him, where the whole family fell in love with the Tuscany region of Italy. And last year, he was able to take another trip with his beloved family, grandchildren too this time, to his favorite place to travel - the Big Island of Hawaii.Dave was a man of great integrity, intellect, and profound love for his family.

He was honored to be the father of four wonderful children, and “Papa” to three beautiful grandchildren. His hazel eyes and photogenic smile; his love of the game of baseball; his strength of purpose; his strong work ethic; his calm and thoughtful approach to solving problems; his intelligence and curiosity about the world around him; his empathy for those who are vulnerable; the value he placed on education; his love for and dedication to his cherished family; these things and more will live on in the children and grandchildren he so loved. His passing leaves a deep ache in the lives of the many who loved him in return.

An endowment in Dave’s name is being established at the University of Washington. This endowment will benefit the UW College of Engineering in perpetuity. If you would like to make a donation in honor of Dave, remembrances may be made to the University of Washington Foundation (DBP), c/o UW College of Engineering, Box 352180, Seattle WA 98195-2180.