Ted Smith
[email protected]
I met Dave working at Xando in December. Seeing him at work always brightened my day. He became a very important member of our family. The weekend that I traveled with him to Boston to watch Avoid One Thing play, I found out that I would be leaving to go on tour the following Monday. Dave was so excited for me and enveloped me in his arms like an older brother protecting his baby sister. The night before I left, we all went out because he said that this was �my night�. Right before I left, he gave me a huge hug and whispered in my ear that I would be all right and to be smart. He also told me that they would all be there when I got back. And to me, he is here.
Han Nah Kim
[email protected]
I only recently met Dave through his new band, but I instantly got a sense of his kindness, humor, and enthusiasm for music and life in general. I feel deeply saddened that this new friendship was cut short. My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved Dave and is suffering from this loss.
with sympathy,
Lydia M.
[email protected]
I�ve had so many friends, talented young men in bands with whom I�ve become friends over my years in Mephiskapheles die recently. Dave�s passing really hit home for several reasons.
He was the nicest guy in music; charitable, friendly, generous and encouraging. The kind of guy who�d say �great show brendog� when I knew it had sucked. His talents were significant. After all, how many ska drummers can keep a beat? :)
I spoke to Mikal (Meph�s drummer) a few days ago. He was also upset by the news, and mentioned that he�d run into Dave on the street a few weeks ago. Dave spoke excitedly about the tour coming up, about the future.
The saddest part is that we can never plan, never know what waits around the corner, and that�s one of the things that makes it hardest for the people left behind. Closure is elusive.
My sincerest wish is that Dave�s friends and family are able to find peace and closure in the days ahead. I hope they know that Dave�s more distant friends and colleagues share their sorrow, and our hearts are with them.
It�s hard to explain the fulfillment and joy that creating music gives; playing it, and sharing that experience with your friends on stages (or in basements) is incredible. It�s something that most people will never experience. Dave lived it and because of that, he�s among the luckiest people to ever grace the earth with his talents.
We�ll miss you Dave, friends and fans alike. Rest In Peace.
Brendog
I used to play drums in Mephiskapheles, a NYC ska band. We played a slew of gigs with SHJ. Dave was a much better drummer and a much nicer guy than I ever was. I remember at one show he jumped on to the stage, joining in on a cowbell while we played. It probably just looked like he was joining in on the fun (he had the biggest grin I had ever seen), but in my mind he was trying to help me out by keeping the song�s timing right. Thanks man. If there�s a heaven, I�m sure he�s backing-up Don Drummond at a gig tonight. I�ll never forget your grin buddy.
-Mikal
I just wanted to offer my condolences to Dave�s family and friends. I hadn�t heard his new band, but was a big fan of both The Pilfers and Spring Heeled Jack. It�s sad when someone close to you dies and I hope they make it through all right.
Dan Kelley
Man oh man, what do you do when a hero dies...
I discovered Dave and Pilfers about one year ago..actually, I remember the date...it was April 13th, 2001. Never has a band struck me so hard. I passed the band along to every one of my friends, all of whom loved the band. I was torn apart upon the dismemberment, but even more so about this...Dave was a great drummer, and from what i hear, a great guy...he will be missed...
Anonymous
i was very sorry to hear of the tragic news. I said a prayer for him.
tim
I just want to say that u guys were all AWESOME at the Dropkick Murphy's concert with dave, and AWESOME at the Flogging Molly concert without him. I'm sure it hurts very much and all my sympathy goes to the band, family and friends. It's great how u carried on last night at the concert, and i'm sure dave would be very happy that u guys continue to SKANK THE HOUSE!!!
Anonymous