David Hadley Read Obituary (1921 - 2016)

David Hadley READ David was born in Seattle, WA on May 20, 1921 to Edwin and Helen (McGee) Read. He was the oldest of 8 brothers to graduate from Seattle Prep, in 1938 (with sister Carol graduating from Holy Names Academy). He received his undergraduate degree from Seattle University, his Master's Degree in chemistry from Notre Dame, and his PhD in chemistry from the University of Illinois. After serving as a naval officer in World War II on the Kadashan Bay on the Pacific front, David was a professor of chemistry at Seattle University for over 35 years, retiring with emeritus status in 1986. In 1951, David married his first love, Goldie Simeon, and had three beautiful children. After Goldie's untimely death from cancer, he married Margaret Doonan in 1963. They soon welcomed two more children. David is predeceased by his wife, Margaret; and brothers, Bud, Ted, Dick, Tom, Bill, and Gerald. He is survived by brothers, Dan and Joe; and sister, Carol; as well as sister-in-law, Peggy; by his children, Terry (Nancy), Mary Fran (Phil Henderson), Stephanie (Ed Walker), Anne (Erich Andersen), and David. He cherished his 9 grandchildren: Sean (Morgan), Paul (Mallory), Kelsey (Tommy), Emily (Matt), Andrew, Joe, Nina, Steve and Kristen; as well as his first great-grandchild, Liam. David is also survived by countless nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews. He counted his family as his greatest blessing. Dad was a life-long learner who spent many happy hours researching various historical characters and periods. With the help of his son, Terry and his brothers, he built a cabin on Whidbey Island that was the setting for countless family gatherings, creating great memories for his kids and grandkids. He loved playing basketball and volleyball into his mid-life, and went on many epic camping and fishing expeditions in the North Cascades and the Olympics. A vigil service will be held Thursday, August 11th at 7 PM at St. Joseph's Catholic Church 732 18th Ave. E., Seattle. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories and celebrate his life. A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, August 12th at 11 AM also at St. Joseph's Church. Donations in honor of David may be made to Seattle Preparatory School - Read Family Endowment (2400 11th Ave. E., Seattle WA 98102) or to Holy Names Academy - Helen McGee Read 1912 Memorial Scholarship (728 21st Ave. E., Seattle WA 98112). Hoffner Fisher & Harvey To send a flower arrangement in memory of David Hadley Read, please click here to visit our sympathy store.