Thanks for posting this John. Very sad news indeed.
Dave was a great guy, and had more fascinating stories and life experiences than the average fellow. He was a genuine gentleman who, as John said, was always willing to share his knowledge and wisdom.
I can remember Dave asking, "You know who my first fireman was?" Turns out it was Walt Disney, with Ward Kimball looking on.
Dave's father was one of the few men from the film units capturing D-Day on that morning of June 6, 1944. And to make it even more incredible, his father, as an American student abroad, had met and conversed with Hitler prior to America's entry to WWII. (This was during the 1936 Olympics, if I remember the story correctly).
I believe his Granddad had something to do with preserving Emporer Maxmillians desk, sword, and other items. Just incredible stories where he or his family had brushes with history.
He was an air brake guru, a historian, and just an all-around good guy who will be missed.
Casey