David “Big Dave” Lawrence Birkeland, beloved father, grandfather, and great grandfather, and friend to so many people, passed away peacefully Nov. 8, 2017, at the age of 77.
As a father, he did a great job teaching his daughters the importance of hard work and supporting your family in everything they do. As a grandfather, his door was always open with love and advice. He guided them in the right direction of life. As a friend, no one could resist his contagious smile. It would light up any room and you would be left smiling by the time he left.
David was very active in the communities of Eglon, Hansville, Kingston, and even Poulsbo. There wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do to help a neighbor. From cutting firewood, weed whacking, filling a pothole in a driveway, or lighting the fire at the Community Center of Eglon to keep everyone warm for an event. All anyone had to do was ask.
Born in 1940 at the Port Gamble Hospital, his parents, Lars and Mildred (Lund) Birkeland, moved from Kingston to Eglon in 1943. David married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn (Myrvik), in 1960. They built their first home on the corner of Eglon and Hansville Rd. where they raised their family.
David retired from the Kitsap County Road Department after 30 years of service. He kept busy moving equipment around the county for Zimmer Construction for several years after that.
David was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marilyn; daughter, Kristal; and his sisters, Happy and Carrie. He is survived by his daughters Kimberlee (Billy) West, Karla (Randy) Bynum; sister, Sandy Jackson; grandchildren Steve (Lindsay), Jacob, Kristal, Wendy, Louie Jr., Keyara; and great grandchildren, Derek and Carly.
David will be missed, but his name will live on in the happy memories of those who knew him. Celebration of Life to be held at Port Gamble S’Kallam Tribal Center at 31912 Little Boston Rd NE, Kingston, Washington 98346 on Dec. 3, 2017 at 1 PM. Please bring your favorite potluck dish.
Donations can be made at the Kingston Branch of Kitsap Bank to assist with medical expenses. Please visit his online guestbook at: www.poulsbomortuary.com.
