David Haley

FRYEBURG — David Richard Haley's phenomenal journey on this planet ended on Saturday, March 7, 2015, at the age of 65. He lived in Fryeburg.

Born in Bridgton, August 22, 1949, he was the beloved son of David R. Haley and Florence Turcotte Haley.

After spending 40 years with his wife, Roberta, he was the love of her life. In addition to his mother, David leaves two devoted children, Heather Haley Jean and her husband Leonard of Brownfield, and Ryan David Haley of Fryeburg.

His children's courage, strength, and abilities gave David an overwhelming sense of pride. They treasured his passion for the unknown, and credit him as the greatest Dad they could have been given.

David also leaves behind a beautiful sister, Sharon Haley Day, and her husband Richard, of Brownfield and Lady Lake, Fla., with whom he shared and cherished many of her family gatherings; his two adored grandchildren and "little shinning stars," Addisyn and Keegan; many brothers and sisters-in-law; and nieces and nephews.

Even as a child David had a deep respect for nature. Most days would find him hiking, or canoeing on the Saco River. He marveled in the discovery of remnants that told stories of Fryeburg’s history.

As a young man Dave's adventurous spirit led him to pursue his pilot's license, golf, dive, and ride his motorcycle. He loved photography, taking pictures of the Oxford Plains Speedway, which were incredible, and of astronomy for which he built his own telescope. He restored a Model T pickup and a 1936 Plymouth coupe, all before the age of 21. David had a genius for technology and a passion for recycling consumer disposables.

David was an avid believer in cryptozoology and a believer in the unknown. He especially enjoyed gold mining with his brother-in-law, for which he built much of his own equipment.

David was employed as a machinist for most of his life, most recently at Tee Enterprises in Conway, N.H. He created many different sophisticated and complex implements from the ground up, prompting many people to seek his technical skill. His kind personality and neighborly morale was easily evident when he never hesitated to stop and fix a stranded motorist’s vehicle because, "this was the right thing to do."

Despite the physical pain Dave suffered over the past 15 years, he never wavered from his commitment of responsibility, or warm heartedness toward family, friends, and strangers. He especially loved the time he spent with the "bunch" at the Fryeburg House of Pizza. The world lost a brilliant mind, compassionate heart, and noble soul when this gentle giant went to rest.

In honor of his love for get-togethers and gatherings, a potluck celebration of Dave's life will be held at the Brownfield Community Center (The Old Brownfield School), Main St., Brownfield, on Saturday, March 21, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Fryeburg Rescue. Online condolences may be expressed at advantageportland.com