Tribute from Betty Violette (Dave's mom)

My sweet son:

Words fail me to express to you what you have meant in my life. You were a shining light and exactly the son I would have chosen if I had been given choice. You were the little boy I called ÒDavid DuckÓ and ÒDoughnut BellyÓ and ÒBibbleÓ. I especially remember the tire we changed together in a blizzard. Never was a tire changed faster than when we did the job, sharing one pair of gloves between us. We took turns jumping on the lug wrench because it would not turn the nut. This terrible ordeal was followed by a visit to a donut shop where you consumed five donuts, Doughnut Belly.

Our time in California together was a good time. We managed to live through my accident with laughter and love. You were like a rock Ð your support never wavered Ð while you took on all the chores I was unable to handle. I can still see you sitting quietly, with a book, in the easy chair in my bedroom while I lay in bed in pain and misery. Your quiet presence meant more to me than you will ever know. Remember how we talked about what you should do if I died, the potato sack, the hike up the mountain and the burial under a pile of rocks to protect me from the coyotes. Laughter was always a part of our relationship and filled in a lot of places that would have been too difficult. Your understanding and loving heart made these times okay. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that it would you who left me behind.

Remember the night we sat up on your bed in the cottage on Los Feliz creating MFE. We were having such a good time, we were surprised when the alarm went off. We had never been to sleep. Such memories will stay with me for always.

I have so many happy memories from the happy time the three of us lived in our tiny apartment with our two kitties. It was a time of love and joy, and it was such a pleasure to witness the love that existed between you and your Corey. I am only saddened to have to give you up a second time. I know that you are in a better place and that you have gone home. It is we who will some day join you.

My pride in you was very great. Senior awards night will be treasured in my memory for as long as I live. You were able to define your goal and never stop working toward it until you won out. You were never a quitter, either as a child or as a man. I know in my heart that you did everything possible until the last moment in your life to come back to us. How will I manage to go on without the knowledge that you are here in this warm home with your Corey, happy and secure?

Leaving California was very difficult for me, but I felt in my heart that you and Corey needed to have your own life together and not feel responsible for me. I am writing this in your office in your home This place has such warm feelings for me because I knew you were happy here. Driving in, I felt your presence as soon as I left Highway 17. I looked around and felt comforted by the beautiful surroundings you so loved. The clothing you will wear for the last time contains cat fur from your beloved kitties.

I love you forever and will miss you for as long as I live. Thank you for being such a wonderful son. You leave behind a very sad, but very proud, mother who will forever miss your voice on the telephone as well as your gentle sense of humor.

How will I bear this empty place in my heart?

Please know how much you are loved.

Sadly,

Mother