Dave L. Hamilton

Dave L. Hamilton, age 74, passed away on Friday, July 21, 2017, at his home in Grants Pass, Oregon, after a courageous battle with cancer.

He was born to Howard and Virginia (Applegate) Hamilton in Corpus Christi, Texas, on August 6, 1942. During his childhood, he moved around the country, and attended high school in Japan.

Although his first marriage ended in divorce, it produced two beautiful daughters, Julie and Diane.

Following a tour of duty in the United States Army, Dave went to work for Prudential Insurance Company in 1964, working his way up to Vice President level. Many who worked for him give him credit for their career success because he was a mentor to them.

While working at Prudential in California, Dave met Cathy Alex. They married
in 1979, moved across the country together to Minnesota and New Jersey, and had 38 wonderful years of marriage.

Upon retiring from Prudential in 1999, Dave and Cathy moved to Grants Pass, Oregon, where they both discovered a passion for fly tying. They became demonstration fly tyers, attending shows throughout the Western States, and in 2015, the Oregon Council of Fly Fishers International named Dave their Fly Tyer of the Year.

In addition to fly tying, Dave enjoyed fishing; reading; gardening; riding on his quad with his feline pal, Spunky; being with family; and sharing good food and wine with friends. Those who knew him will remember his big smile and outgoing personality.

Dave was a member of Western Welcome Newcomers, Southern Oregon Fly Fishers, and Southern Oregon Fly Tyers. He is survived by his wife, Cathy; daughters, Julie and Diane; grandchildren, Breanna, Cassidy, and Trevor; sister, Kathy; niece, Melease; and nephew, Chad.

There will be a Celebration of Dave’s Life on Sunday, August 20, from 1 to 4, in the Evergreen Room, next to the Taprock Restaurant.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.