David Price

1929  –  April 5, 2021

David M. Price

David Price was the 6th of 7 children born to Frank and Genevieve Price.

He spent his childhood on a dairy farm in Sunny Valley Oregon. Early education took place in a one room schoolhouse until 7th grade when he attended public school in Grants Pass, Oregon. He attended the U of O where he earned a Business degree. He joined the U.S. Air Force during the Korean war and became a fighter pilot, flying F-86 Sabre Jets, the hottest fighter airplane at the time. He was stationed in Korea and finished his time in the Air Force as a flight instructor in Texas.

Soon thereafter, he met and married the shining Love of his Life, Joan. He then received a second B.S. degree from Oregon State University this time in Forestry, and settled his family in Deary, Idaho working as a forester for Potlatch Corp.  He later moved to Lewiston, Idaho and retired from Potlatch as Western Division Forestry manager after 22 years.  Joan and Dave retired to San Juan Island in WA where they lived, sailed, and enjoyed island life for 30 years. They recently moved to Kenmore, WA to be closer to family.

He was a lifelong outdoors-man, hunter, hiker and fisherman. The last 10 years of his life were spent happily ensconced in playing his grand piano and painting, which was an expression of love for the scenic natural world around him. He was well known for his legendary sourdough pancakes and golden fresh bread which he baked even while under sail on various expeditions.

As a host to many guests visiting the island, one could never sleep past 8 a.m. without being loudly regaled with a trombone solo. He was a longtime member of the “One More Time Band” in Friday Harbor. Often you could locate him by the sounds of his whistling, in the yard, around home or along the sidewalks of Friday Harbor. One of his most beloved attributes was daily use of a rich and colorful vocabulary which included many original word mash-ups. His surprising bursts of quick, witty comebacks won instant adoration everywhere he went. Dave was admired by many as an honest, hardworking man.

He was deeply loved by his family and was a favorite uncle to many of his nieces and nephews. He and Joan were married for 63 years. He is survived by his wife, 3 children and 3 grandchildren. He was 92 years old.

Plans are being developed for an intimate Life Celebration with intentions for mid-summer on San Juan Island.