David A. Norwood

David A. Norwood a.k.a. "Preacher" David Norwood, of Wapato, was taken from us suddenly on Wednesday, July 16th while doing what he loved. An accomplished paragliding pilot and a well respected Minister within the Presbyterian Church, David was just 55 years old. Born in Boston, MA on September 21, 1958 and raised in the NW, David would search for his wings early in his life by jumping from rooftops and bicycle ramps, climbing the highest of trees, and earning his pilot's license before the age of 21. He then scaled mountains including Rainier, ascended in balloons, parachuted from airplanes, and for the past handful of years floated endlessly above the earth under his colorful Paraglider, learning to be one of the best and more tenured flyers in the country, with over 700 logged flights. Well known in the skies of Eastern Washington as "Preacher", David flew with a smile as wide as the horizon, and traveled into the far reaches of Mexico and Nepal, bringing happiness and peace to all who met him. And when not chasing the next thermal, David remained grounded with his family and his church community on both sides of the state, with followers from Vashon Island to Wapato. A longtime Pastor at Community Presbyterian Church of Wapato, David was a true man of God, doing His work wherever it was needed. He especially loved working with the elderly and the young. Even after his church doors had closed, Dave continued as a gentle presence at Lower Valley Hospice, served as a volunteer firefighter, was an enthusiastic referee for high-school football, basketball and baseball, and was still always available as the all-around "go-to guy" for those who just could not for themselves. Preceding him in death by just 6 months was his proud father Willis. Survived first by Gail, his patient and loving wife of 31years. Their children Linda, Ryan (Jeannette) and Matthew, and 13 treasured grandchildren, all felt his pure love. Also heartbroken are his mother Marcia, brother Doug (Susan) and sister Amy (Doug), who will forever miss his guidance, his strength, and his humor. In the wake of his passing, Dave has left a grieving community of flyers, adventurers, community members, extended family both new and old, and countless others that he has befriended and inspired along his most incredible journey. David will be missed by all who knew him for his generous and caring heart, his willful approach and unassuming nature, and his determined and tireless drive, all of which fueled his passion for anything that could lift him into the skies. He is there now with his ultimate set of wings, and may he forever soar above us, smiling down upon all those he cherished. A funeral service is being held at 1:pm on Saturday, July 26th at: St Timothy's Episcopal Church 4105 Richey Road Yakima, WA 98908 To experience a view into David's word, visit his U-Tube channel that holds over 300 videos he posted. https://www.youtube.com/user/dnorwoodxx/videos

David A. Norwood

September 21, 1958 - July 16, 2014