David Fredrick Lochelt of Portland, Oregon, 71, died with dignity in his garden on April 24, 2019. In true David form he did a CrossFit workout two days before he died. He chose to end his suffering from the glioblastoma multiform (GBM4) he was diagnosed with in October 2017.

David was born in Sacramento, California on March 4, 1948, the third child and first son of Jack and Georgia (Leavens) Lochelt. David was a 1966 graduate of Terra Linda High School. He was drafted into the United States Army in 1968 and served one tour in Viet Nam in 1969-70. David served with the 173rd Airborne Brigade was attached to the 17th Cavalry, Troop E as a Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol Forward Observer.

David spent most of his adult life as a musician performing in a remarkable assortment of venues. He was a prolific and impassioned songwriter and tireless guitar player. At his death David had enjoyed 43 years of sobriety. He believed music and sobriety provided him a way to carry on in the world. David became a visionary gardener and fine woodworker. His home, garden, and wood shop were his sanctuaries. David was the father of four children and grandfather of four.

He will be remembered for his strength, drive, persistence, intensity, wit, creativity, deep love, smile, sparkling blue eyes, and his daily uniform of a Kirkland Brand white tee shirt and Carhartt pants. David was well loved, respected, and appreciated by many.

David is survived by his wife Lori; children Ron, Elle (Andre), Murl (Jennie), Ingrid (Schuyler); grandchildren Elsie, Milo, Abel, and Jonathan; sisters Jackie and Susan (Bobby), Brother Stephen (Sally); and numerous nieces and nephews.

David was preceded in death by his parents and sister Carol Adair (Kay).

“If life is what you make it I’m making mine a work of art!”

Duke of Des Moines

Song by David Lochelt

The family is grateful to Dr. Seunggu Han, Dr. Jerry Jaboin, Dr. Ambar Faridi, Dr. Charles Blanke, the Portland VA, OSHU, Care Partners Hospice, End of Life Choices Oregon, Omega Funeral & Cremation Service, Blue Ox Athletics, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Kay Ryan, Kim Thompson, Carl Morse, Bobby & Shannon Pinkham, and countless other friends and family members.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans at https://www.dav.org.