David Kneeshaw July 1, 2008

David Patrick Kneeshaw

July 9, 1928 – July 1, 2008

Dave passed away peacefully in Seattle, on July 1, 2008. He was born on July 9, 1928 in Tacoma to Francis and Josephine Kneeshaw. He graduated from Bellarmine Prep and Seattle University. He served in the army as an amphibious tank driver during the Korean War and worked as a purchasing agent for the Seattle School District until his retirement in 1990. He married the love of his life, Dee-Dee and celebrated 55 years of marriage.

The “Humble Poet” as he was known, enjoyed many things in life. He was a history buff, all around handy man and published author. Dave will be remembered for his witty, ballad style poetry, his love of Vashon Island and the outdoors. Some of his many interests included traveling, camping, book collecting, bird watching, and telling jokes. David was the youngest of 6 children and was preceded in death by his dear sister Rita Degon and 2 infant siblings. He is survived by his wife Dee-Dee, son Michael (Sue-Lon), daughter Patty (Michael), grandchildren Jessica ( Sov), Jacob, Christina, and Katie. He will be missed by his siblings Ann Staeheli and John Kneeshaw, 30 nieces and nephews and many friends whose lives he touched. A special thanks to the Arden Nursing Home staff for their loving and thoughtful care. A celebration of Dave’s Life will be held later in the summer.

Remembrances can be made in Dave’s name to the Vashon-Maury Island Heritage Association (P.O. Box723 Vashon, WA 98070) or to the Bellarmine Prep Scholarship fund -(2300 South Washington Street, Tacoma, WA 98405).

David Kneeshaw Obituary

7 Responses to “David Kneeshaw July 1, 2008”

  • Mindy says:

    I will remember polishing rocks, Dave visiting my 2nd grade classroom to talk about his poems,his hard work ethics, and loyalty to friends and family. I smile when my kids play with the blocks he made, and tow the \tug\ at Vashon. I will miss Uncle Dave more than words can express. My prayer and thoughts are with Dee Dee and family.

  • Chuck Manca says:

    Dave was special to me for over 55 years. I still remember Dee Dee first bringing Dave to our house when they were at Seattle University. From that day forward to the last time I saw him at Arden, the smile and asking how I was were fixtures. The love that he showed to Dee Dee, his children and ‘new children’ Michael and SueLon and grandchildren was ’24-7-365.’ I miss Dave so much and also know that his values and legacy will live each day. Chuck

  • Gary Manca says:

    My thoughts and prayers are with the whole Kneeshaw family. I will remember Dave’s humor, poetry, and kindness. Whenever I saw Dave, he was quick with a joke and a smile.

  • Paul Abel says:

    Dave’s wit and ability to reach out to others is what I remember the most. To this day, I still don’t know how Dave always had a joke or witty remark that made me smile. Regardless of who you are, Dave went out of his way to be a gentlemen and say hello and acknowledge you. Whether it was at the hardware store, or in front of the Sea Shanty on Vashon, he always went out of his way. Thank you Dave for the fond memories. Do not be afraid, for someday we will be re-united with Dave.

  • Christina Daniels says:

    Grandpa was definitly my hero and he always will be. He was a fighter and never gave up and that was what impacted me the most. I loved spending time with him as do other people and members of the family and I know that he brang joy to so many people. Whenever I saw Grandpa, I always think of Vashon. He loved it out there and that is what makes it such a special place for me now. The memories that The Sea Shanty holds are memories that are like no other. Everyone will remember Grandpa as the man who always went out of his way to help others, and the man who meant so much to so many people because of the actions he made. He will never be forgotten because of the marks that he left on each and every one of us. Now that he has passed away, I cant wait to be re-united with him, once again.

  • Tony Mladineo says:

    I just noticed in yesterday’s Seattle Times of Dave’s passing. I go back a lot of years with Dave. Starting at St. Patrick’s grade school, through Bellarmine and finally Seattle U. While I haven’t seen much of Dave in some years now I do have very fond memories of him. Always had a smile on his face and a great sense of humor. Dave was extremely well liked by all. Just wanted to pass on my best thoughts and prayers to you.

  • Margot Newman says:

    Uncle Dave was a wonderful example of hard work, commitment to family and the power of humor. How many times would I visit the “Sea Shanty” and there would be Dave, actively working on a project. His workshop was always a delight to enter. There Dave had everything so orderly. I always marveled at all the baby jars screwed into a board holding all his various nuts and screws. Dave’s jokes were a hit with all age groups. He always offered us a drink (diet coke, please!) and a chance to relax on their porch. Dave was a gracious host to all his nieces and nephews. I will miss our visits…and the laughter! God Bless.

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