From Craig Lemley

I was deeply shocked and saddened to hear of David's passing.

Dave came to Myers Park Country Club shortly after my arrival as the Tennis Director at the end of 1996. And he was a fixture at MP Tennis ever since.

Over the many years, I spent about the same amount of time with him both on and off the courts.

On court, Dave was a smooth, yet determined competitor. He had a very high tennis I.Q., enabling him to vary his play based on the opponent and the conditions. I recall asking him why he still played so much singles rather than switch to more doubles...he responded with words of loving the individual battle and being solely responsible for the outcome of the match.

We often sat together off the courts as well. Watching matches, talking about travel, music, the Whitewater Center and the Atlanta Braves. Dave was such a great conversationalist. So well read and well traveled. He always had lots to say...but listened even better. I will truly miss these conversations.

Myers Park Country Club has fantastic courts and a great staff. But what makes a great program are the "Regulars".

Those members that play all the time and for the love of the game. Not just seasonally or for events. " Regulars" play on cold winter days and in the heat of the summer They play matches, they do drills and they watch other do the same. They hit with their kids. David was an MPCC "Regular". He made our program great.

It is perfect that you chose the Myers Park Tennis Facility for his celebration. I am so, so sorry that I can't be there today. I write to you today from Holland, Michigan, as I attend a big family reunion.

I hope that friends and family can help you find comfort at the difficult time.

Sincerely,

Craig