David M. VanPool
Sept. 28, 1947 - Aug. 11, 2008
Wednesday, August 20, 2008 10:18 AM PDT
Ontario
David M. (Papa Smurf) VanPool, of Ontario, passed on Monday, Aug. 11, 2008, of a sudden heart attack. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, five children and 11 grandchildren.
David grew up in Southern California where he met and married his high school sweetheart, Helen (Dee). After high school, he served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam conflict.
After 11 years of service to his country, David moved his family to Northern California where he started truck driving.
Also while in Northern California, David began playing music with local bands for a few years before forming Western Union.
As leader of Western Union Band, David and Helen traveled the Northwest before settling in Ontario in 1986. His music made him many friends throughout the years in the Treasure Valley where he became known as “Papa Smurf.”
After playing music professionally for nearly 30 years, David returned to trucking. He passed while in his truck at a loading dock waiting to be loaded.
He will be missed by many, and he will live on in the memories of all who knew him.
Services were private. Family from all over the country attended a memorial held at his home. David was cremated and his ashes have many destinations. Memorials may be made to ICB, 98 S. Oregon St., Ontario OR 97914.
