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David Hay Obituary

David Mark Hay passed away peacefully with family by his side on June 15, 2022, at the age of 77.

David, the son of Cecil and Aloyse Hay and big brother to three sisters, was born on June 4, 1945. David grew up in Bangor where he spent his days playing sandlot baseball with friends and his nights racing cars, claiming to have never been beat.

After serving a tour of duty as a U.S. Marine in Vietnam, David's hippie soul and cowboy spirit took him to California where he enjoyed a beach and mountain lifestyle with a dedicated group of wild and crazy friends.

David met and married his wife and life-long partner, Linda Callahan in the Lake Tahoe area. Together, David and Linda settled in Cameron Park to raise a happy and loving family, with two kids, Jacob and Jessica.

In Cameron Park, David spent many seasons coaching youth sports and sharing his love of skiing with his kids and their friends. He also worked proudly for 25 years as a building inspector for the city of Sacramento, supporting his kids through college and providing them opportunities he never had himself.

In retirement, David lived in Sacramento, and eventually Bellingham with his wife and daughter. He was a natural as a grandfather who always kept the family laughing and happy with his humor, stories, and relentlessly positive energy. An unapologetic liberal, David shared the values of compassion and acceptance with anyone who would listen.

David is survived by his three sisters: Betty, Ellen and Nancy; his wife of 44 years, Linda; son, Jacob; daughter-in-law, Stacey; daughter, Jessica; grandchildren: Trevor, Hillary and Harrison; dog, Sam; and cat, Izzy, all of whom love and miss him very much.

"Lately it occurs to me, what a long strange trip it's been." – Grateful Dead, Truckin'


To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Herald-Palladium on Jun. 25, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
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6 Entries

Jim Fincher

September 12, 2024

Sorry to hear of Dave's passing. I served with Dave in the Marines in El Toro, California and in Vietnam. Great times and tough times he was always a great friend. Had not talked to Dave since maybe 2015, and just now found this news. Dave was loved by many of his fellow Marines...Semper Fi brother!

John and Jaclyn Buckreis

July 7, 2022

We are so sorry to hear of Uncle David's passing. This was a beautiful obituary and I'm glad I had some adventures in the past with him. The first time that I remember was in 3rd grade when we traveled to MI for Grandpa's funeral, and then in later years when we lived in CA and got a chance to get to know him better. Rest in peace. Jaclyn and John Buckreis

Laurie Wrage DeBruin

July 6, 2022

To one of the most amazing men I have ever met - I tribute you this. He "watched each card and played it slow". David built, developed and nurtured everything he was involved in, big or small. From his career to his family David led and inspired. "There is a road, no simple highway, between the dawn and the dark of night" David taught everyone to pick up and be stronger with new roads ahead. He had a knack of directing us to be more productive with our goals and feelings. He was a wise one. He also was one of the kindest souls that we've ever met. His gentle soul helped us remember "If you plant ice you're gonna harvest wind" David spread love and kindness every where he went and was an amazing role model to all. Sometimes "you just gotta poke around" to find the happiness and adventure, but David had no problem with that. His optimistic perspective on life led to many adventures. Sometimes there was "nothing left to do but smile, smile, smile" but his smile was the best. His unapologetic liberal views may have ruffled some feathers but not only is that what we loved about him but his authentication of self was admirable. He taught us that "Sometimes we live no particular way but our own". And that some days we might have to "Hang it up and see what tomorrow brings". David brought people together. His heart and soul will never be duplicatable. Losing him is a great loss. Greater than anyone can describe. "Every silver lining's got a touch of grey" I suppose. That's what he'd remind us of. I will remember him with Grateful Dead tunes because they represented so much more than lyrics to him. His life story on records. "If you get confused just listen to the music play" and you better put your all in your dreams because "without love in the dream it will never come true." I already stated David was wise. One of the deepest, wisest, most loving soul you will ever meet. "Inspiration move me brightly". David YOU will continue to inspire us till the end of time. We will keep trucking because your love will see us through.
With love,
Laurie

Connie Kopp

July 6, 2022

A great classmate from the class of '63. Rest in peace David.

Judy Elias

June 28, 2022

Linda and family so saddened by the news of David's passing and glad to hear he was surrounded by family. My memories of David were that he was always happy, positive and great to be around. If you had a question, as i often did, he had the answer. I pray that Linda and the family have the strenghth to do what is necessary to lay him to rest. Speak his name frequently so he knows you won't forget him. I know I won't, R.I.P. Sir David Hay.

Natalie (Perrino) Kaliterna

June 26, 2022

Dear, Betty, Ellen and Nancy. Your brother was such an amazing guy. He will truly be missed. Prayers to you and your families.

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