Dave P

Dave was the most subtle adventure enthusiast.  Thinking back over the years, he was the most willing participant in so many crazy adventures.  On the top of the "we were lucky to escape that one" list was the time we were roaming the streets of Northfield on bike probably a little drunk and certainly a lost less intelligent than our transcripts would suggest, descending the most uninviting and long stairway on the St. Olaf campus.  Half way down, Dave's bike preceded to disintegrate beneath him.  Literally.  And in his affable and humble way, he sat amidst the wreckage and shrugged it off and we limped home with what remained of our bikes together.  At other times we roamed the various storm sewers of the surrounding cities, or explored the maintenance tunnels of Carleton (a bolt cutter may have been involved).  A gecko on the water tower and a failed attempt at a "Micky Mouse" cover on the campus clock where memorable events of the campus years. Did we really dangle 200 feet over the edge of the water tower?  The sprint to escape the campus police after descending the clock tower was maybe more satisfying than it should have been, but we outran them nonetheless!  Mention must be made of the night a group went winter-camping, Minnesota Style!  Where I come from, if it's 40 below zero and your toes freeze, you loose your toes.  But Dave asked Keith if he could put his feet on his belly, and Keith - being from Kentucky - thought this was a grand idea.  Dave had his toes to the end.  Add to the mix the race cars, motorcycles, airplanes and various escapades.  As hard as it is to accept he is gone, take comfort in knowing Dave lived life to the fullest.  He touched so many.    There is no way to make sense of the fact he is gone, but think of that person you care most about and consider for a moment what they mean to you, and the impact they have made on your life.  Forget the small stuff.  Love them and let them know they are loved.  And live life to the fullest.  It is your legacy.  I loved you Dave and always will.