So these past few weeks have been a little bit rough for my family. My dear uncle Dave passed away. I’m really glad I was able to see him just a few days before he passed. During the early morning that he passed away, I suddenly woke up from my sleep. Crazy huh?
So this particular post is dedicated to my uncle who was and will always be my favorite uncle. And was also everyone else’s favorite uncle.
These photos will be from his celebration of life gathering and memorial service.
He didn’t want everyone mourning his death, but celebrating his life.
This is a quick overview on him.
Brattain, C. David (Dave)
March 30, 1943-June 28, 2011
Dave was born on March 30, 1943 in Toledo Ohio, to parents James Brattain and Mary Crim. In 1960 he moved with his family to Santa Barbara and graduated from San Marcos High school a year later. He worked in the hotel industry for a few years before being drafted by the U.S. Army in 1964.
Once he completed basic training, Dave was sent to South Korea as part of the Military Police Crop. While stationed in Korea, a friend introduced him to a woman who stole his heart. After serving his tour of duty, Dave returned to the United States but never forgot the woman he met abroad. As a civilian, Dave went back to Korea and asked Sun Cha for her hand in marriage. They had 2 children and remained united for almost 44 years.
After his experiences as a military policeman, Dave decided to work for the Santa Brabara Sheriff’s Department. He spent three years as a deputy, but chose to pursue another career albeit in a similar field. In 1669, he started his own business: Dave Brattain Bail Bonds. For the next 40 years, he helped families in difficult situations. Always a strong supporter of the Santa Barbara community, Dave sponsored many localsoftball teams and bowling leauges. In addition, he was a member of Santa Barbara Elks Lodge. He will forever be remembered for treating people with the greatest kindness, generosity, and respect.
Dave is survived by his loving wife Sun Cha, son Jae Bratain of Santa Barbara, CA, daughter Kimi Stubbleifield of Murriecta, CA, and three grandchildren Douglas, Nicole, and Ashley.
He was preceded in death by his parents James Brattain and Mary Crim, brothers Ed Brattain and Jim Brattain, as well as sister Roberta Daglis.
A private celebration of his life will be held by family members. He will be laid to rest with military honors at Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, CA.
Taking photos takes my mind off of things. Or else I would just start bawling. Well even while I was taking photos I was still crying.
Last sunday, everyone gathered at his home to celebrate his life. It was family, friends, food and memories.
My aunt and one of my cousins.
Through everyone who spoke about him, family, friends, neighbors, employees, I learned a lot about my uncle. He was a genuine, kindhearted person. The best as someone can get.
On the mantel.
It was a potluck, so everyone made some bomb food.
My younger cousins who kept my mind off of sadness.
Leah
Addisyn
Ashley
These next set of photos are from his Military Honors Ceremony. This was mostly family.
Driving to the memorial site.
Uncle Dave will be laid to rest to the left of where the 5th car is. I will go visit him often.
Releasing a butterfly.
Unfolding and folding of the flag.
Uncle Dave, you will always be in our hearts. We all love you!
xoxo
Chrissy Kim
