Thinking of you all the time my friend. Wishing you were still with us in person. Looking forward to seeing you again.  Love to Pamela and your family. 💙💛

David, 
Just seems like yesterday we attended school together and enjoyed working together at my family's A&W. And enjoying seeing you again at our highschool reunions. 
God Bless you David and we will all see you  and Duncan again. 
Dennis Kellenberger

David, 

For thirty years I knew you, mostly from Dale's side of the conversation and far too infrequently by being with you.  Always happy, always with a story, always with an idea. 

My fondest memory is the time you became what I thought was our guest for the winter.  You hadn't been there very long when you announced, after a telephone call with someone named Pamela, that you were heading back to Maine because of her. Turned out to be an awesome reason.

David, I loved you yesterday, I love you today.

Dear Gentle Man,

I knew you but briefly yet your smile, your sense of humor and your choice in wives:)---are indelibly pressed in my favorite chapter of my favorite book. Fly free knowing that your kindness and gentleness made life so much fuller for so many.

Cate

David,
It is hard to believe that you are gone. It just seems like yesterday you were getting your restricted driver's license...I had to wait until August. It was great to see you at the Largo High-class reunion, and I cherish the phone conversations we had shortly before your passing. You, Duncan, and Dale were part of our family. While you may be gone, your smile and sense of humor are always with us. 
I know you are enjoying seeing, Mr. and Mrs. K , Bobby, and Duncan in Heaven!
So many more memories to share ...God Bless.
Dennis

David was a great friend to me.   I loved him dearly.   He took my family in as his.  He made my mom pistachio ice cream at the end of each season.  This would her last a few months into winter.   He would sit on the front lawn with Cliff and watch the cars go by.  Occasionally putting a finger up to a familiar person driving by ( copying Cliff)  ha ha 
David would call me during the last few years and tell me about his last misadventure.   I would giggle and he would reply with , “I think that you are getting to much fun out of this,Nancy. “ then in ,David spirit, he’d just crack up laughing.    I still hear that laugh ! 

Sympathies du Quebec. 
Tu vas nous manquer David. Goldenrod ne sera plus pareil sans toi.
On t as connu tu mettais les boules de crème glacée sur les cornets.la derniere qu on t a vu je t apprenais le deces de mon pere et nous etions avec ma mere...I remember that you cry with us at the table .
Tu nous manquesras.

Shiley Moore... cousine fe Josée  Fradette

Well Dave, it's been a year since I last saw you, and for the last time! As your sister, I am overwhelmed with all the memories I have of so many things that happened in our life. 

I can honestly say that I've never met another soul with such a positive and uplifting outlook on life as you had. You might not like me saying this but you had such a sweet, sweet spirit that was never lost, no matter what!

I'll certainly miss our Starbucks visits when I come down to Florida.
Davy, I love you and I miss you so much! 

I met David when I was a barista at Starbucks. Like clockwork, David would always show up on his bike, happy as a clam. Nothing brought me more joy than our little talks. My boyfriend and I had the pleasure of coming over and spending time with him and Pam in Driftwood, sitting on the dock with some beers. The last time I saw David he was still in a happy place but couldn’t put his finger on how he knew me. “I feel like I know you, I just can’t remember today”, he said. I gave him a big hug and got all teary eyed because that was all I needed. My heart weighs heavy but I know that he has made a wonderful impact on everyone who was lucky enough to know him.

Dave and Pam became my regular customers on Wednesday nights at Courigan’s Irish Pub. Dave was always so humble and he had the best stories. His sense of humor really matched mine and we always enjoyed a nice laugh. I loved getting to know him, and I will cherish those Wednesday nights we spent together. My heart goes out to the family ❤️

Dave was the best! I met him when I was 15 and working at Spiller’s!  The Goldenrod and Spillers had a fun rivalry.
Such good memories!

He always  brought a ray of sunshine into the restaurant.  My heart goes out to you all❤️. He will be greatly missed.

In 1970 I moved into my freshman dorm and met David who I soon was calling Davey-boy. Our friendship was immediate, deep and burgeoning. Since 1970 Dave and I sought and spent time together  every year with very few exceptions. We were members of “February Friends”, a group of unique, disparate guys with the only common thread being attending the same college. As this group often started its annual journey from my home, Susan and I were blessed each year with the annual phone call from David requesting he stay a day or two “extra” before the trip so we would have more time together and, importantly, so he could try to visit his many friends in the Atlanta area.  That’s not to say Dave wouldn’t call randomly during the year, just “thinking about you” because he would. 

Kindness, humor, and openly displaying interest and concern for fellow humans were some of the things I’ll remember about Dave. Beverages will be another.  Holding a beer in his hand would somehow set him off on stories of all common and uncommon friends. He was the link to knowledge of many and loved holding forth and catching us up on his adventures. 

Another set of very dear memories come from visiting him in Maine during summers, watching him work, and realizing how important the Goldenrod was to him.  It anchored his life in many important ways. He was so proud of the Goldenrod and its unique and important role in York Beach. 

I’ve held off writing my note because my feelings about losing Davey-boy run so deep that it is difficult not to tear up while I type. He is the second of the Feb Friends to die. As with the first of our college buddies to pass on, Dave will hold an extraordinary  and exclusive place in my heart and memory for the remainder of my time. Salute, and happy days, Davey. 

Dear Pamela,  This note is sooo late but I just saw the York newspaper with an article on the Goldenrod and I went to computer to see how Dave was doing and found the saddest news of his passing.  I loved you both a lot and remember when we worked at Coldwater Creek all those years ago?  To me, you were the "most beautiful girl in the world", and you are still that!  Your Dave was the sweetest, kindest, and best guy ever; he is with the angels you can be sure.  I'm 87 years old, husband Lindsay almost 89; we still keep up every day going as strong as we can.  Still love you Pamela, Ginny Carroll

I've known David since college, and like a few lucky guys, got to know him better over many years after that. On annual post-college trips, Dave and I often shared the back seat of the van. We often laughed trying to hear the group discussions with our failing ears, commiserating about our failing other parts, and sharing what seemed like important things in our lives.  Back in that smelly third seat I first learned about this girl Pamela, and how much he loved her.

He had a million friends, and he knew every one of them.   He wore his illness a bit privately, but very well.   I will miss him for as long as I live.  Like it says, "Ask not for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee."

At Jimmy Guana's, Indian Rocks Beach, December 12, 2019 -- Salud and Happy Days!

We’ve all heard about “degrees of separation” between individuals, how one person is no more than six “degrees” away from any other person.  In Dave’s case, it couldn’t have been more than three degrees, tops.  He had an open heart, and every person he met was invited to become his friend.  You couldn’t help but like Dave, with his sunny, unassuming manner, sly and quirky wit, easy laugh, quick and genuine smile . . .  From our college days onward, David McMullen was my friend for half a century.

No matter what life handed him, Dave remained a constant:  Always looking on the bright side, ready to share a story or a joke or a life lesson . . . with an ever-expanding constellation of people who could call him their friend.  Dave accepted his final diagnosis simply as a “new adventure,” and just kept on being Dave – with the same humorous outlook, easy smile, and open heart . . . meeting people and letting them be his friends . . . having fun for as long as he could.

After decades of only seeing him for a few days each February, it was my privilege to spend more time with Dave over the last year of his life.  We went on Thursday morning outings once a month, giving Pamela a few hours of much-needed “Pamela” time.  No matter where we might go for the day’s adventure, Dave would always find a way to connect with somebody, often just by asking “Where ya from?”  Failing memory, halting speech, narrowing vision . . . they never stopped Dave from being who he was, still trying to reach out.  His obvious vulnerability seemed to make Dave even more appealing to people’s better angels.  It was an unanticipated joy for me to stand with him and sense their love and caring, and to briefly share a bit of that glow.  I will always treasure my “Days with Dave.”

If you want to pay a lasting tribute to David McMullen, then open your heart and treat every person you meet as your friend.  If you do, then sooner or later you just may hear some new friend say “Yeah . . . I knew Dave!”

I have avoided posting anything because there isnt a day that goes by that im not missing you and wanting you to call me and tell me about your morning routine bike ride to Starbucks. I walk past our photos of us hanging in the hallway everyday. Uncle David your love meant everything to me. My favorite memory you taking me to the family reunion and pulling that pen out of your pocket and adding my name on the family tree. You made me feel like family and for that I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU or the memories💔 lov you your niece Debbie. Ps remember you promised to tell my dad all about me❤

Pam,
Iam so sorry to hear of Dave’s passing. I just got this message from Doug so sorry for the late reply.

Belinda

He was a wonderful man who always had a kind word and friendly smile whenever I visited the Goldenrod.  May he rest in peace.

I have procrastinated  in writing this because my mindset was never where it should be when I was reminded to share my thoughts about a wonderful, caring person who always acted upon his love for others.  
Acted upon are key words! (And I have purposely refrained from reading all other memories from his friends for fear that I would use someone else’s words.  If you see duplication, it proves that my buddy, Davy Mac, was a sincere and loving person.
He always went out of his way to SEE people, not just call them.  He was always willing to serve others-a great cook-and truly learned the value of enjoying life in the moment. 
At least annually and sometimes more often, I had the pleasure of spending quality time with Davy.  Never a dull moment, always looking for fun, laughter, sharing another humbling story that brought LOL to everyone listening!!
From Goldenrod humor to a day on his sailboat, to the many different experiences on the first weekend of February with college buddies, Davy Mac was a ‘real’ person!
Kudos to Pamela for her love and care for Davy in the final months and days that consumed her and showed her love for him.
Love to all the family!!
We will miss you, Davy!!!!


I met David when I was almost 16 years old working at the Goldenrod. David was not yet an owner, but he worked very hard and very long hours.  He was serious about his business, but he always brought a smile and laughter with him. Working 50 hours a week with David , I found him intelligent, interesting, and very funny and witty. We became close friends. David would always try to get me to go out after work for a glass of wine at the “Barn”, and I would tease him about graduating from a college named after a drug store. David seemed to know everyone in York, their families, their friends, and their stories. David always had great stories, some funny and some not so much. I laughed at all of them. After I moved to Virginia, my parents would often eat breakfast at the Goldenrod, and David always took time to spend a few minutes with my Mom and Dad. That was David. When he entered a room you became his friend. When he entered a room, he left behind more smiles, more laughter, and more friends. David loved his beautiful daughters Rian and Cara, and was so proud of his grandkids. David and I shared great memories of our summers in York , and I miss him greatly. I lost a cherished friend. 

“Did you hear the one about…..”?  David could entertain for hours with his cheerful, funny, or life lesson stories.  He always had a smile and keen sense of humor about the world for friends.  Strangers were unknown to him, just people he hadn’t met yet.  On his bike, David was our own undercover surveillance system for Driftwood.  He’d stop and tell you if there was something going on.  He enjoyed the peace and beauty of the waterfront and always glad to have company.  David and Pamela enjoyed a wonderful bond, and with their grace, charm, respect, and dedication, they have been inspirational to watch and learn from during this past decade.

David McMullen will be deeply missed and his kind, compassionate, storytelling humor will be with us the rest of our lives.  Hugs for you dear one.


I knew David from the time I met his daughter Rian  when she was in second grade, and taught his daughter Carah from Kindergarten through grade two (and beyond)  He was a kind, loving, affectionate, and funny man. His love for his children was always very evident. He deeply cared about other people, and was so proud of his “Golden Rod” family and business in Maine; and shared kindness and joy as long as he was able. I feel blessed to have known David in his brightest hours, and blessed to have seen him at Carah’s wedding in November. He was a kind soul, and his gentle nature will be missed in a world where kindness is so deeply needed.

To The McMullen Family

Dear Pamela, was so sorry to hear about David’s passing.  For as long as your heart is feeling the sadness of loss, may it also feel the warmth and caring that surround you.  Know that you are not alone in this time of sorrow.  If you need to reach out I am hear for you.

Robbie Wigger

David always had a story, and a good one, too!  Though not his intention, he was creating many beautiful stories as well, as is obvious from the memorial posts already underway.  My favorite David experience was having him stay for a weekend and go for his walks around where you live, and then return with many stories about your neighbors that you have not heard yet.  Wonderful neighbor to everyone he could touch in his life.  He would change how we think about each other, and always in a better and more kind way.  David and Pamela’s partnership was powerful and improved the lives of those around them forever.  David’s spirit continues thru each and everyone one us, and encourages us to “go with the grain”.

My best memory, and there are several, is when he took the time out  of his day at Goldenrod to show my kids and me around the entire place.  I think my now adults still remember that as well. We met David in the Parrothead club up here in NH/ME. He and Pamela were always there with a smile, guidance, assistance in searching for tickets, just about anything you needed. Best couple. Cheers my friend! Rest easy. You did well here.

Dave and I were close in age so it was easy to share memories of our younger days. We both had worked at A&W root beer restaurants when we're were young. Before he  moved back to Florida , he gave me a small A & W root beer mug. I still.have it and cherish it. We met through Club Finz Parrot head club. He had a school boy heart. Always smiling and that was infectious. He made you feel good. To sum it all up...Dave was just a great guy. Sail on my friend.  It really was a lovely cruise. 

There are many memories.  Dave always had something to joke about, he was never without positive or humorous words.  I believe it was early Nov 1999 when I first met David at a Club Finz HH at the old Bananas Bar & Grill downstairs.  I was brand new to the area but not to ParrotHeads.  I had barely set foot on the bottom step before he handed me a beer to welcome me.  Always so generous, so many gallons of cherries and cases of pineapples gifted to the greater good.   I can't thank him enough and those that have taken fruit from a random bucket at Conventions and Buffett Show parking lots can tip your hat to Davie.  Its with great pride that I called him a friend and compatriot of parrothead nation.  Thanks for the many laughs (and beers) Dave, you will be missed.  Sail on my friend.  
If you're reading this, please give Kristine Cuzzi a huge hug and kiss from me as well.  CHEERS!

My earliest memories of David were of him as a fun, happy-go-lucky guy who would come to the family home in the spring with all kinds of interesting stories.  Subsequent memories were of him as a strict but fair boss who supervised the ongoing shenanigans of the Goldenrod dishroom crew (e.g., ‘got time to lean, got time to clean’).  We’d sometimes call him ‘the phantom’ because he had an uncanny way of showing up whenever we weren’t on task, like while enjoying the occasional hot fudge sunday that came in untouched from the soda fountain when it hadn’t been made quite to order.  During occasional encounters over the following years, he always seemed as friendly as when we first met.  He’ll always be remembered.

I loved Dave. He was the first person to treat me like a person. With respect and kindness. He was my first boss and taught me the work ethic I carry now. He was kind and fun. Always smiling and so quick with a smile, a laugh and a hug. I will miss him. The world has a huge hole without this man. Xxoo

OBITUARY

David Bruce McMullen

10 February, 1950 – 17 April, 2020

Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park & Funeral Home

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