David Clark Briggs

David Clark Briggs, 68, of Skull Valley, AZ died August 11, 2012 in Prescott, AZ at the Veterans Administration Hospice facility. He was born June 9, 1944 in Phoenix, AZ to Clark & Mamie Lu (Coulson) Briggs. A memorial service will be Friday, August 17, 2012 at 9:30 at the National Memorial Cemetery in Phoenix, AZ with military honors. Dave lived a rich and full life, enjoying friends and family. He was free and lived as he chose, doing interesting work at various radio stations, including KDKB. Always the mechanical guy, he worked in Kenai, Alaska as a mechanic for a commercial fisherman. Dave began his higher education in the U.S. Air Force Aircraft Mechanic's School. Later he earned a degree in Aeronautical Mechanics while in Anchorage, Alaska, eventually becomming an instructor teaching aircraft mechanics in Phoenix, Arizona. He loved to travel; along with Alaska, he also visited Mexico and Hawaii. Residing most of his life in Arizona, he also lived in Tucson, where one of his best friends, Charlie Oliver, lives. Dave was born and raised in Phoenix by his mother and father, Mamie Lu and Clark H. Briggs. He is survived by his sisters Terry Ellington & Laura Briggs; and his brothers Robin Briggs & Gary Frady, who still reside in Arizona. He also has nieces, nephews, as well as great-nieces and grandsons and a great-grandson. His Air Force years were impactful and, while stationed at McChord Air Force Base in Tacoma, Washington, he met and married Carol Tustison. They have a son, Derry Clark Briggs, who has 4 sons and a great-grandson, they all still live in Tacoma. Derry is currently engaged to Tracy Choich, his best friend. While living in Alaska he enjoyed the company of his best buddy Wayne Anderson, who was married to Dave's sister Terry. Wayne always said that Dave was the most honest person he knew. Even as Dave's health deminished, his love for his dog Snoopy, the cats, birds, and nature gave him comfort. He lived on his sister Laura's property and Tieg Briggs (her son), was instrumental in setting up and maintaining Dave's home. As a disabled Veteran he maintained his life with dignity, and was very grateful for the TLC he received at the Precott VA Hospital & Hospice. He was sweet, humble and generous with everyone. Dave is loved and will be missed and always in our hearts. And we ask: Lord, now let thy servent depart in Peace.