David Clark Sterling, 72, went Home with Jesus, Friday, 24 June 2016. David was born 27 March 1944 in Washington D.C., to Jack and Annabelle Sterling.
His father was was serving in the United States Navy during World War II, stationed in Maryland. The family followed his father to Panama and then Seattle where he was stationed.
David grew up near Seattle, in Lake City, following his father in the Navy where he had his tour of duty in Vietnam. Just home from the Navy, David had a life changing accident on a motorcycle, fighting Osteomyelitis for the remainder of his life. Not letting that stop him, he joined the Merchant Marines, due to his love of the sea and distant places. However, Osteomyelitis surgeries forced disability retirement.
David’s love of history led to collecting cultural pieces and antiques of all kinds, which he sold in shops through the years. Along with silversmithing, he always maintained a full life. David was co-owner of the “Place Pigalle” at Pike Place Market until the renovation of the market. Dave then owned the restaurant at the Ferry Landing on Bainbridge Island for several years.
In 1988, David met the love of his life, Judy Howlett, and they were led to Chesaw, Washington, where together they bought the farm of their dreams, 26 years ago.
The last chapter of his life, David was a cottage farmer, restoring the old homestead and dabbling in antiques, as always, along with blacksmithing and glass blowing, always on to the next project on the farm, until all of his surgeries and health problems slowed him down. David faced incredible challenges in life with his disability, but as his Mother always said, “If he gives you lemons, make lemonade!”
David was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Ann Sterling, his brothers Noel and Kevin Sterling and his cousin Curtis Hicks.
David is survived by his wife, Judy; nephew Kevin Sterling, sister-in-law Sally Sterling and great niece Kylie Sterling; stepchildren Nicki (Scott) Gerard, Brian (Wendy) Hoskins, Heather (Chris) Covey and Heidi (Collin) Meijer; grandchildren Michael Joe and Katie Hoskins and Sadie and Colton Meijer.
The family would like to Thank North Valley Hospital, Confluence Health, Okanogan County Transport and Home Health Care for the wonderful care and concern. Also, Thanks to all his friends who gave him support and love in his final years.
Graveside services and burial will be this Friday, 1 July at 2 p.m. at the Chesaw Cemetery. A celebration of life Potluck gathering will follow at Dave & Judy’s
Bergh Funeral Service & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.
