Dave Middleton

Dave Middleton passed away at his home with his family present on Saturday, Aug. 19, 2006, following a 21/2 year battle with ALS. Dave was born in Spokane on Jan. 13, 1945 and grew up at the family orchard at Stratford. He attended Wilson Creek grade schools and Ephrata High School. Dave attended WSU before transferring to EWU, where he graduated with a degree in political science and economics. It was in college that he met and married his wife, Billie.

During their early years of marriage, Dave and Billie moved over twenty times. Sydney, Australia and Kodiak, Alaska were just two of the most interesting (though not always exotic!) places they resided. However, when children Tom and Brenda were born, Dave decided to move the family back home to Ephrata in 1974, where he took a computer programming job with the PUD. Dave purchased Lindsay Water in June 1980 and expanded the business through the years to include water treatment, pools, spas and bottled water.

Dave enjoyed golfing, travel, playing cards and watching all types of sports. He was actively involved in his church, little league, umpiring baseball, lions club and 13 years of service to the community as a city councilman. To many, he will be remembered as the "voice of the Tigers," a past time which brought him much joy.

Dave was diagnosed with ALS, Lou Gehrig's Disease, on his 59th birthday, Jan. 13, 2004. He met that challenge as he had always met any problem in life, with a strong belief that God would sustain his faith as he walked the path before him. Dave continued to do all he could for as long as his body would allow him. Each time he was forced to let go of an activity he simply would say, "It's just part of the walk I have before me. I'm happy that I know where I'm going, just not pleased with the journey between here and there." Dave was humbled by the support of the community and the honors bestowed upon him in these last 21/2 years.

Tom and Brenda were the light of their dad's life. He gave them the love and support needed to grow into responsible and caring individuals. Dave's son Tom came into the business and will continue to own and operate Lindsay Water, Pool and Spa. During this busy career transition, Tom's wife Audra was so considerate of Dave and his limitations with this disease. She was very thoughtful to ensure that he sons, Nolan and Conner, spent as much time as possible with their grandpa.

Dave will be greatly missed not only by his family and close friends, but by his wonderful community as evidenced by their continued prayers, cards and visitations through his illness. Along with his wife, Billie, at the home, he leaves behind his daughter, Brenda, son Tom, Tom's wife Audra, grandsons Nolan and Conner, mother Marie and sister, Barbara Cornwell.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made in Dave's name to the ALS Association, Our Community Cares or a charity of your choice. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Aug. 26 at 11 a.m. in the Ephrata High School performing arts center with reception following.