David Sanman

David Allen Sanman, age 85, passed away surrounded by his family on November 30, due to heart failure. Dave was born January 22, 1931 in Lewiston, ID to Edward and Gladys Sanman.

Dave was always an avid sports enthusiast, playing baseball throughout his childhood. He continued his baseball career through college at both Eastern Washington University and Lewis-Clark State College; later, he was drafted to play professional baseball for the Lewis-Clark Broncs. Soon after, he left to serve our country in the Korean War. Returning from the war, Dave became an educator, teaching for almost 30 years. Dave spent most of his career at Clarkston Middle School where he taught Physical Education, retiring in 1986.

Dave married Suzanne McDaniel, in 1958, and they celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary this past August. Both Dave and Suzanne enjoyed spending time with each other; as well as, family and friends. They raised their two children in Clarkston, WA. After retirement, Dave and Suzanne lived in Vancouver, WA, and Post Falls, ID, while escaping some of the winter to enjoy the Arizona sunshine together.

Throughout his life, Dave remained active - coaching, playing and refereeing. He refereed both football and basketball at the high school and college level, enjoyed playing softball, and became an avid golfer. He was very proud of the hole-in-one he once made, proudly displaying the prize golf ball on the mantel.

Given his generous heart and community spirit, it is not surprising that Dave was involved in many civic groups, including the Shriners, Elks, Moose Lodge, Fraternal Order of Eagles, and Masons. He often volunteered his time to help facilitate activities within each of these associations. In addition, Dave served as President of the Washington State Education Retirement Association, as well as countless Homeowners Associations over the years. Dave was always known for his perpetual smile and optimistic attitude, consistently seeing the glass as half-full. Regardless of the time of year, one could often hear him wish a hearty “Merry Christmas!” while grinning ear-to-ear, and was “tickled pink” to see you.

Dave’s greatest joy was his family, including daughter and son, plus his seven grandchildren, whom he cherished. Through the years, Dave and Suzanne traveled near and far, supporting their beloved grandkid’s many activities and sporting events. Dave’s indomitable spirit was infectious, passed on with love to each of his children and grandchildren.

Tragically, Dave lost his soul mate, Suzanne, after their anniversary this last August. For two who had been joined-at-the-hip, the prospect of life without her was painful. Daily he would share stories of their years together and awaited being reunited with her in heaven. The family is comforted, knowing that they are reunited forever.

David was preceded in death by his older brother Edward, Jr., as well as his wife, Suzanne. Survived by daughter Debbie (John) Click of Vancouver, WA; son Ken (Nanette) Sanman of Post Falls, ID; and seven grandchildren: Jordan Sanman, Bryce Sanman, Ashley Click Crowley, Alyssa Click, Amy Click, Ben Turpin and Abbey Turpin. Dave was also blessed with three great-grandchildren, plus two more on the way.

To make the world a better place was Dave’s greatest wish, and truly, he exceeded those expectations. Gregarious and full-of-life, always with a ready smile, his kindness, humor, and giving heart will be greatly missed.