David E. Hodges

David E. Hodges

1949-02-12 1995-12-15

A little business to get out of the way first, Dave's birthdate should read February 12, not the 2nd. Most of you probably don't know me, I was Churchill '70.  I've been pushing for three years for information as to whether there was going to be a 50th Anniversary of the school.  Thanks to Pat Mullaley and Roger Bascue I now have my information ! Dave left Eugene in '67 and headed for Boston where he attended and graduated from M.I.T.  While there he was studying Aeronautical Engineering and was part of a team that analyzed photos, etc. and advised in the choosing of America's first moon landing site. He started working for a big firm in New York upon graduation and within a few years he and a partner were chosen to open their new offices in San Francisco.  After a few years the firm decided to withdraw from that market and gave Dave and his partner their entire West Coast client list.  For many years they worked out of their offices in Santa Rosa, Ca. Dave had a real passion for baseball.  What he couldn't always perform himself, he had a real gift for teaching !  He headed a thriving program for 13-15 year olds for many seasons.  At his home he had acreage and converted much of it to batting cages so kids could train year around. Dave took his own life on December 15, 1995.  Rather than posting here what led to that, not everyone needs to know nor does everyone care.  Some of you may have been closer to Dave and I plan to attend the upcoming 50th Reunion activities on August 18.   Don't be shy if you'd like to know more of his story.  It is not painful for me and I think closure can be good for us all !  If you are unable to attend and would like to ask questions or share stories, feel free to email me at the address above. Chuck Hodges WCHS '70

tribute by Chuck Hodges

Very sad to hear of Dave's passing at such a young age.  We shared many classes together and had a mutual interest in math, science and engineering.  We even survived Mr. Barber's Physics class without our egos being crushed too many times!  Would like any classmates to fill us in on his life after leaving CHS.  

tribute by Graham Parker

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