Author: Michael Lansing

I only had the pleasure of meeting David a few brief times, but in those moments he made me feel like I knew him, and he knew me. I am surprised and truly saddened at his passing. The world lost one of the good ones.

You were one of the good ones.

I had the pleasure of meeting David for the first time in February 2020 while he was on vacation in the Dominican Republic with his wife Kelly, brother Rob, and sister in law Paula.

We met on the beach, and myself and my wife Sharon quickly clicked with the Findley brothers and their better halfs!

Having an aviation background myself, it wasn’t long before myself and David exchanged stories and experiences, and I was so impressed with David’s broad knowledge of the industry, and his keen interest in current commercial aviation issues (B737 Max design oversight ) etc.

More importantly, me being Irish, David & Rob felt duty bound to educate me about ‘real’ alcohol (while sipping cocktails on the beach!), and again, I was impressed with his knowledge of fine wines and spirits (in particular, whiskeys & bourbons).

We had some great nights together, and David proved to be an absolute gentleman.

David, it was my pleasure to meet you! RIP.

Dear Kelly and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this extremely difficult time. God bless you.

Ken Delaney.
Ireland

From a few years back when David and Kelly came to visit in Oregon. with Alan and Lola Dutton

Kelly, Rachel , Liam & Family, My deepest condolences go out to all of you at this difficult time. I feel I was fortunate to meet David through Liam & Rachel’s wedding. You know you can tell a persons character usually not long after meeting them, and I knew David was a “good guy”, not long after meeting him.He made me feel very welcome in the family and was genuinely a warm caring person. I’m greatful for time we had together along with Kelly & the whole family celebrating our children’s wedding ,and the laughs we shared. There’s no doubt You will be greatly missed by everyone who’s lives you touched I’m sure, Rest In Peace David! 💐

Myself and my husband Ken met David and Kelly along with his brother Rob and wife Paula in late January this year on holiday in Dominican republic.
From the moment we met these lovely people we laughed and struck up a friendship we are so blessed and thankful for.
David was so witty and full of life. We had so much fun and laughter with David, Kelly, Rob and Paula.
From across the ocean in Ireland we send are condolences.
Sharon and Ken Delaney xxx

David and I knew each other professionally for many years before we ever worked together at Tampa Air Traffic Control Tower/Tracon. At Tampa is were I really learned what a great person Dave was to be around. We laughed, we shared personal stories and dreams both won and lost. David Findley proved to be extremely knowledgeable in Air Traffic procedures; so much so, that I would often look at him, shaking my head and say, “you are like a flipping genius!”
After Dave retired, we didn’t see much of each other; but, Sabrina and I followed Kelly and him on facebook. We were constantly amazed how every time we started to plan a trip, vacation, movie or play adventure; they would post about that exact adventure they took….always a step ahead! Kelly and David even got Married and had their honeymoon exactly where we were planning ours…of course they got there first!
I’ll always remember David for the laughs, the advice but most of all for his friendship!

I am saddened and frankly shocked to hear of Dave’s passing. I had the pleasure of working with Dave, on the Air Traffic Support Team at Tampa Air Traffic Control Tower for several years. Dave’s exceptional knowledge of ATC procedures and requirements was remarkable and working as a peer with him taught me a lot.
My heartfelt condolences to Dave’s family and friends.

Had a pleasure of meeting David at my nieces Rachel’s wedding enjoyed our conversation. I told him what a great dancer he was He thanked me for the compliment he mentioned how much he loved to dance I said you can tell by your moves-lol! Sorry to hear of his passing may you find the “Stair way to heaven” David, you will be missed!

I remember meeting Dave at an erwin happy hour downtown and we talked about my sons interest in aviation and becoming a pilot. Because of that conversation, we found Civil Air Patrol and my son has been active as a cadet for over 3+ years. . Cheers to an awesome person. Kelly always had a big smile on her face when he was by her side. My prayers go out to you Kelly and family.