Obituary of David Stinson

David Stinson of Duluth died on September 13. He was born to Floyd and Pearl Stinson in Hartford, CT, on July 26, 1942. After several moves his family settled in Lawrence, Kansas. An outstanding athlete, David participated and excelled in many sports, especially basketball playing for University of Kansas Jayhawks in the early 1960’s. He was also very skilled in golf, volleyball and tennis. An excellent pitcher at age 15, Dave was scouted by the Kansas City Royals. Playing and refereeing volleyball was a passion until ill health prevented him from participating.

David graduated with a degree in geography and taught at various colleges including University of Wisconsin-Madison, UWS, UMD and University of New Mexico. When geography was phased out of college curriculum, he turned to selling office equipment.

David is survived by his wife Carole of Duluth, his mother Pearl Moore of Lawrence, KS, brother Jim Stinson (Maureen) of Lawrence, KS, sister Deborah Russel of Portland, OR, sister-in-law Roberta (Tim) O’Hara of Hugo, MN, son Brett Stinson (Cathy), grandsons Charlie and Andrew of Stillwater, MN, stepbrother Ned Moore (Evie) of Danbury, WI, and many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

David’s spiritual life was strengthened by his family at the Unitarian Church, especially his friend Gieger who faithfully visited him nearly every week for 17 years. Many loving family, friends and caregivers accompanied David on his lengthy journey with Parkinson’s disease.

David was a brave, gentle, compassionate man who possessed a spontaneity that helped him celebrate all of life’s adventures. Parkinson’s disease took his body, but his spirit will live forever in those who loved him.

A special thank you to the neurology department at Essentia, his caregivers at Edgewood Vista and 3rd floor at Benedictine Health Center, the outstanding St. Mary’s hospice team, Jan, a hospice volunteer with whom David formed a special bond, and Christine, chaplain at BHC, who shined a light through the darkest hours. Please know that each of you is deeply appreciated.

A private memorial service will be held at a later time.