If anyone ever cared, really cared for someone else it would have to be David Clinton Thatcher. He was a warm hearted and well liked individual, and these wonderful traits came easily to him because he was such a sociable and amiable person, someone who was always making certain that those around him had whatever they needed. David was a talkative person who was tactful at all times but typically said what he meant.
David was born on January 30, 1948 at Mercy Hospital in San Diego. He was the son of Betty and Bob Thatcher. David was raised in Mission Hills, CA. During his childhood he learned to be reliable and respectful. David was an obedient child who wanted to win the favor of others. He found it easy to show sympathy and to perform kind acts for others. These admirable qualities would become a part of David's personality throughout his life.
Though David was frequently the one to initiate games and activities with his family, he was also quite often the family member who took the role of referee. David was a peace-maker with an ability to resolve all sorts of family conflicts. In fact, David worked conscientiously to keep those typical family spats at bay. David was raised with four siblings. He had John, Janice, Debra and Norm. David and his siblings had the typical rivalries while growing up, but they cared deeply for one another.
As someone who reveled in the sheer joy of his experiences, David was always enthusiastic about new adventures. Although he had an exacting nature, David was always tactful. One thing David will certainly be remembered for is that, when he got up in the mornings, he was ready and raring to go. As a young boy, David had a number of interests and was an active child. David took part in baseball. He was a Boy Scout, and YMCA / Indian Guide.
For David, the school routines were never a problem although he generally preferred variety to structure. He seemed to be able to start a project and work right through to its completion. And he was able to do it quickly and efficiently. David was also adept at details. David was very observant and was generally quick at picking up new things. He graduated from San Fernando High in 1966. He enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers. His favorite class in high school was football practice. Lettered in Football.
There was one thing that all of David's friends knew and will still remember, and that is that he was a talker. He could pretty much talk to anybody about anything. This quality is one of the primary reasons that David was such a popular person throughout his life. But David was also dependable, loyal and trustworthy. David was the kind of person who simply radiated good fellowship. While he maintained personal standards and his own personal values, David was very accepting of others. With a distinct skill for working things out, David was often the person who would organize events. In fact, David was fairly comfortable playing the role of “host” for just about any occasion. When David made friends, he made true and lasting friendships. While growing up, some of his best friends were everyone. Later in life, he became friends with Brad Williams, Dennis Jenson, Bill Rich.
David was a faithful and loving person. Some would even call him sentimental and a romantic at heart. His kindness and consideration radiated an aura of warmth to those around him. David cared for what others thought and carried that into his marriage. On July 20, 1985 David married Vickie Gail Anderson at Saint Paul's Episcopal Church of Pomona, CA. Compassionate and devoted, David worked hard to make his new life partner happy.
Taking his work seriously came naturally to David, and he expected the same from those around him. David was a good team player, someone who was born to cooperate with others. He was what some would call a “people person” and it was demonstrated in his good communication skills. David was a steady worker, one who was realistic about schedules. The kind of details that would give family members and work colleagues fits were situations that David handled well. He could understand the details without getting lost in the broad “big picture.” His primary occupation was Finance and Mortgage Loans. He brought harmony to his work environment, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect for his colleagues.
A methodical man, David enjoyed spending time working on his various hobbies. He had no problem following all of the steps and instructions on a given project and was proud of the fact that he could have something to show for his efforts. His favorite pursuits were all sports all the time and Corvette Club.
David was one of those people who took pride in constantly putting forth his best effort. Nowhere was that more visible than in sports. David was always enthusiastic and a great team player. In high school, David played football. Recreational sports included golf. David also liked being a sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite teams whenever he got the opportunity. Tops on his list were any and all.
His keen interest in things that affected the lives of other people led David to become actively involved in professional and community organizations. Because he was outgoing and worked well with others, David did his fair share of volunteer work. And he wouldn’t shy away from taking the lead on committees or events, either. He was a born list maker and was great at creating and sticking to schedules. Throughout his later years, David was an active member of the Corvette Club.
David was the kind of person who would readily move into action in order to help others. He was appreciated and respected. He could find value in the opinions of others and was passionate about his own values and beliefs. So it’s little wonder that he was active and highly valued by those in his community, serving on committees for the Walnut Chamber of Commerce.
A generous and compassionate man, David accomplished much during his lifetime. Though he never set out to gain individual recognition, David was recognized and given awards for his many and varied efforts throughout his life. Some of his most prestigious awards included Citizen of the Year 2005.
Not only did David enjoy traveling, but he also seemed to enjoy planning all of those trips and vacations. He was a facilitator who could easily make up a near perfect schedule of all of the things to do and see. He rarely tired of going back and revisiting his favorite places. Favorite vacations included Hawaii, Lake Tahoe, Jamaica, Cancun and any place visiting family and friends.
David was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of his favorites was "Dude" a German Shepherd, "Frazier" 1/2 Lab - 1/2 Weimareiner, "Blue" a chocolate Lab, "Snow White" a Boxer.
David passed away on June 22, 2010 at home. He is survived by his wife: Vickie, his sister: Janice and her husband:Terry of Oregon, his brother: Norm and his wife: Cathy of California, four nephews, four nieces and two grand-nieces Services were held at Custer Christiansen Mortuary in Covina, California. David's urn will remain at home with the family.
David was a fantastic conversationalist who could engage just about anyone in a discussion. And whenever he said something, he meant it. David was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. He was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. He was practical and sensible, but what friends and family will remember him for most is the fact that he was so understanding and kind. Everyone whose life he touched will miss David Clinton Thatcher.
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