It is with great sadness that I have learned at this late date of the "rest of the story" of David "BAPOO", a friend and travel companion who managed to be at ease with all who crossed his path. Having him leave the circle of his friends that I knew in Austin and head to California to live the life he did, and provide the care and love to many that he was so capable of sharing, was a loss to me that I regret. But so glad to hear some bits about the wonderful life he did share with many others. Whatever the next phase of existence may be I'm sure he is at peace.

Posted by Howard Bedingfield on July 18, 2021

David was one of the most gentle and aware persons I have met in my life, highly intelligent, reflective, principled, and a good poet. We were friends during my freshman year at the University of Texas at Austin in 1967-68, and I saw him again in Berkeley in 1971. Then, we lost touch with each other. I only recently found his obituary and was very sad to hear of his passing. The world has lost a great soul. I wish I knew the names of his books and how to get them.

Posted by Elizabeth Fine on July 5, 2020

David was a warm, loving human with an amazing mind. I loved spending time with him, watching his main work, listening to stories, talking about life, laughing about how ridiculous it all was. When I moved to SF we exchanged letters, which was such a treat, to get letters written by such an incredible writer. He helped me through a tough first year after my move. I still laugh at things we talked about and stories from his life and from his fiction. It's a huge loss. The world won't be the same without this powerful, sweet, brilliant man.

Posted by Eric Slade on May 30, 2019

Just found out. What a kind, gentle, compassionate person. Conversations with him were never long enough; he exuded calm and peace and honesty, which invited those qualities in return. I am so grateful to have known him.

Posted by Jo Cannon on January 29, 2019

David was a Prince amongst men. What a remarkable man, so thoughtful and compassionate. His passing leaves a huge loss. I met David when he came to the Myeloma support group and quickly established himself as an invaluable member. His caring nature coupled with his nursing background meant that he was able to help others and share his wisdom. David and Ken both became First Connection volunteers, they went through a day long training and then made themselves available to talk to other myeloma patients and caregivers from all over America. How amazing is that, to turn your own tragedy and diagnosis into an opportunity to help others and give hope. David was a role model on how to life life with passion and compassion, how to follow your own path and to face death with dignity. David did things his way and made the world a better place. Rest In Peace David and know that you made a magnificent difference.

Posted by Sue Sumpter on September 19, 2018

Although David and I graduated from Thomas Jefferson, class of '63, I really didn't know him then. We became friends our freshman year at Lamar University. We were commuters, and I had a car. David, Tommy Crow and I rode together that year. Tommy, a Christian, decided to learn Hebrew. David was the perfect teacher. What a wonderful year I had driving those two to college. On several occasions I attended Temple services with David. Afterwards we'd drive the streets of Port Arthur discussing the mysteries of life as only 19 year olds can. Sleep well, my friend. Rest in peace. You are the gentlest soul that I had the privilege to know.

Posted by Ellen Guajardo Talus on September 14, 2018

I went to Thomas Jefferson High School with David. We were members of the Class of 1963. David was a smart, sweet, and kind guy. My sympathy to David’s loved ones.

Posted by Barbara Irion on September 14, 2018

One of a kind...friend, hero and forgiver... Gave so much, asked for so little. Deserved so much more,sacrificed for others despite his needs. Thank you Brother Dave- See you on the other side 🙂

Posted by Chadd-Paul. Astoria on September 14, 2018

Bapoo and I were roommates for a semester or two at UT in the mid-60s. He had an incredibly sly sense of humor and a mess o' soul. You couldn't fool him. Also, (at least in the 60s) one hellacious ping pong player. Had not seen him in decades, so I've missed him for a long time, missing him more now.

Posted by Michael Bellamy on September 14, 2018

Working side by side with David was always an incredible honor. He and I worked many years together; many evenings, nights, Holidays. We shared our lives. We spoke of life, death. I am missing my friend.

Posted by Anthony Reeves on September 13, 2018

Farewell Bapoo, one of the finest humans I ever encountered.

Posted by JAMES BigBoy MEDLIN on September 13, 2018