ForeverMissed
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Your stories about my brother have brought so much joy to my famliy and me...we love hearing from you!

January 29
January 29
David,

Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you and all the fun and laughs you brought to all of us. I am so grateful for all the memories and stories that we got to share. Nothing has faded, only stayed just as strong over the years. And while I cannot believe that it has been 10 years since I’ve seen you, I know you are always watching over us. In fact, I bet you’re sharing stories with Nene, Gammy, Grandpa and everyone else up there with you. 

Keep them laughing, Buddy, that was one of your gifts. With you all up there I know it’s one heck of a party with an occasional golf game, and I’m sure you have a perfect shot every hole you play.

I love you, miss you and wanted to tell you that today. We’ll talk soon.

Aunt Jodi
September 21, 2023
September 21, 2023
Hey buddy. It's not as if you don't know this already but I think about you pretty regularly. Rewatching early 00's Masters replays both thinking maybe Phil could win hahaha! And any type of situation ripping the cover off the ball of course. If you can, help me get back to where I was with ya in WPHS days with my game, been strugglin. NO Spin! I always appreciated your belief in my skills and I always had respect for yours too brother. We were the best on the team and it wasn't even really close. Funny little chapter down here, huh? You sure as hell kept me laughing...and I'm sure you still are up there. They're lucky to have ya. Miss you brother!
January 29, 2016
January 29, 2016
To David's Family and Friends,
I catch myself thinking of David, often times. Fun was the name of the time David and I worked together, right prior to going into the military. He was so proud of being in the Navy. We were so thrilled and happy for him...and sadly, David continues to be missed by those who lives he touched
January 29, 2016
January 29, 2016
Thinking about the Popper Family today, and lifting them in prayer. Also remembering with fondness, our time with David on the Honduras mission trip, he always made me laugh.
January 29, 2016
January 29, 2016
I did not know David but I do know his parents and through them I knew him well enough to be devastated by his death. So I am once again reminded of the sorrow they must feel. It must be so difficult as David was their delight.
Reading these posts I hope They are reminded of the beauty he brought to this world, the lives he touched and the love he left behind. May they find comfort in this.
January 29, 2016
January 29, 2016
Hard to believe it has been 2 years since David passed. I really loved working with him at Disney and miss his smile and his great interactions with the guests. Blessing to the Popper family.
November 6, 2015
November 6, 2015
I can honestly say there are a few people in your life you will meet that you will always remember no matter how many years go by and how far you are away from them and David was one of those people to me I have so many good memories of him fun times in Everett and Korea and the gulf he could always make me laugh no matter how terrible of a day I had and he always knew the right thing to say to defuse a bad situation I will really miss him. Rest in peace brother you will be missed.
August 23, 2015
August 23, 2015
Today I am remembering you by writing a story about how funny and goofy you are. And I'm sitting here wishing I was at writing the story because that means that you're no longer here with us. I miss you brother. I'm am dedicating my Chief Select season to your memory because I wouldn't be where I am without brothers like you to help prop me up to the leader I am today.
July 17, 2015
July 17, 2015
It was such a pleasure working with David at Disney at The Magic of Disney Animation Bldg at Disney Hollywood Studios. He had such a great sense of humor and was always so good with the guests and had a big smile everyday. I wish he was here to celebrate his 29th birthday today.
January 29, 2015
January 29, 2015
We pray that God gives you peace and comfort in knowing that David is in Heaven with his maker, May you always cherish his loving memories.
God bless you and family!
January 29, 2015
January 29, 2015
It is hard to believe it has been a year already since David's passing. He was such a great Disney Cast member and really missed working with him. He was always so great with the guests and the kids and had an infectious smile. It was a sad day when this precious light was lost.
January 29, 2015
January 29, 2015
David's wonderful life on earth and his beautiful, eternal spirit is thought of now and always.
January 29, 2015
January 29, 2015
I'll always remember David and how much fun he was to work with at the Magic of Disney Animation. He could always make me laugh and I loved making him laugh many times too. He was so good to the guests and his fellow cast members. He always had a positive attitude while at work. My thoughts,hugs and prayers go out to his family today!
January 29, 2015
January 29, 2015
To my sweet Nephew,

Words will never be able to describe the pain of not having you here, but know that you are thought of and loved yesterday, today and forever. I miss you tremendously and will love you always....heaven is lucky to have you. Keep them smiling.... Love, Aunt Jodi ❤️
December 27, 2014
December 27, 2014
His life, legacy, and wonderful spirit will never be forgotten.
July 19, 2014
July 19, 2014
I was a good friend of David's. We shared lots of great times in the Navy. He left me some of my most fond memories. It's been about six months since he passed and I still find myself thinking about him all the time. We experienced overseas ports together as liberty buddies and had the time of our lives. I am very thankful to have known my boy Popper. In our friendship he taught me more than I would have ever imagined. I know he's having a better time up there than all of us. I can't wait to be liberty buddies again some day!

-Goldy
July 17, 2014
July 17, 2014
Hello to Family and Friends of David
I, along with these many others, had the opportunity to laugh with David. I knew him right before he went into the Navy. We spent time together getting Tasers ready to be shipped to Brazil. I was desperate for help and he bailed me out, with laughter and energy. Once, when we had a slow day, just for kicks he went out and washed the fleet of cars parked in the driveway. He had that kind of energy. And when he was done, those cars shone; but not as much as the shine of his smile. As I close my eyes for this brief moment, I can see him standing in front of me, with that quizzical look on his face and that special wry smile when he knew I was doing something that wouldn't quite work out. It didn't and he knew, he just knew. That's David.
March 6, 2014
March 6, 2014
We here at NavyDads.com have just learned of David's passing. We are very saddened to hear of the news. You all are in our thoughts and prayers. May he always have fair winds and following seas.
February 14, 2014
February 14, 2014
I had the honor and pleasure of watching David grow up as a neighbor from age 4 until his very untimely death. I say honor because I can honestly say I have never known a finer young man. He epitomized all the qualities a parent would hope for in their child. He was always respectful, in a good mood, thoughtful, polite, helpful, considerate, and so much more. I always considered him an extended part of our family as though he were another son.
He also was always a pleasure to see or simply be around. Whenever we saw each other outside, we both would gravitate to each other even if only for a brief interval. We cared for and about each other. I enjoyed watching him play with his dog, throw a football, or practice his golf swing, sometimes without a club. Those were always good shots.
One day I took him to Interlachen for a game of golf. He was an amazing golfer. I had one of the best rounds of my life. This in part was a reflection of fear of embarrassing myself in front of him. In part it was also a reflection of just how much fun it was to be with him. What I remember most about that day was the pride I felt just being with him. I was not expecting that feeling, it just happened.
I loved David as though he were my own son. I will always greatly miss him.
February 13, 2014
February 13, 2014
Dear Poppers - Our son, Joe shared with us the shocking news of David's passing. Our hearts go out to you in losing a wonderful son and brother at such a young age. We are praying for God's peace to surround you in the difficult days ahead, and may the comfort of knowing you will see David in eternity carry you through your sadness and loss. Our memories of David Matthew go way back to when he and Joe were preschool friends playing under chairs in their "make believe world" in the waiting area of the dance studio where their big sisters took ballet. David was a true and loyal friend way back then, and I have no doubt that he remained that way throughout his life. We are blessed to have known him. Praying for you in Christ's love from the Longden's.
February 12, 2014
February 12, 2014
For years of my life I considered David to be one of my closest friends. I just want to share a couple of stories that I fondly remember.

When we were on the golf team at Orangewood together we played a match against the worst golfer in history (literally) who we knew only as "Ben". I'll never forget when Ben hit his ball so close to the edge of a lake that he had to stand in the water to take his next shot. He took his shoes and socks off, rolled up his pants, got in the water and then proceeded to shank his ball right into the very lake he was standing in. David and I burst out laughing so hard that we literally stuck our heads inside our golf bags to try and maintain what little honor as competitors we had left.

David and I went on a mission trip to Honduras with a group of Orangewood people when we were in the 9th grade and it was the first time that either of us had ever been to a third world country. Needless to say we were both in shock the second we arrived having grown up in nicer parts of the world. The only way I was able to endure that "terrible" trip was thanks to David's witty sense of humor that had me laughing so hard that my face and stomach muscles hurt with intense pain. It seemed that every minute we were creating inside jokes that we would go on to talk about for years. I had never laughed more before in my life and over a decade later I still haven't. I have since been on a number of trips to third world countries to help various groups of people and I can guarantee you that I would have never done so if it wasn't for David showing me that with a good attitude you can find light in the darkest of places.

I didn't get to spend much time with David after high school but my memories of him are some of my favorite memories of my entire life.
February 12, 2014
February 12, 2014
I am so sadden to find out about the passing of David Popper....I went to Orangewood with him from elem, till he left. He was always so kind hearted and with a smile. We used to talk about sports all the time together. My prayers and thoughts are with each any everyone of you.
February 11, 2014
February 11, 2014
Dear Popper Family,
My family and I have very heavy hearts due to David's passing. We always look forward to seeing all of you at church every Sunday and lunch for our girls is sometimes the highlight of the weekend. I've come to know David over the last 4 or 5 years and have always found him to be very fun and full of zest, especially when discussing golf and his most recent rounds. I will miss verbally jabbing at him with the small issues and growing pains that we all endure. He was a remarkable young man and will always have a spot in our hearts. Mr. Popper, if you need a golf partner sometime in the future, I can't take David's place completely, however, I will do my best. Love the Bayliss'
February 10, 2014
February 10, 2014
Our hearts are heavy with your pain and loss. We were remembering chatting with David following church the Sunday after Amy's wedding. I talked with him a bit of military life, where he'd been in the Navy, etc. He was so cordial and very much a gentleman to someone he hardly knew. What a hole your family must be experiencing. We are praying that you may sense our Father's strong arms about each of you to comfort now and in the days ahead.
February 9, 2014
February 9, 2014
Dear Popper Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. My parents and I were at the service yesterday (although we missed signing the guestbook) and it was so beautiful. Amy and Mr. Popper, you did a fantastic job. I haven't seen David since our middle school days. I know how much you loved David and he loved you and I enjoyed all the stories you told about him. I'm sure he was listening from heaven and felt very honored by the service. I have been praying that God will comfort your family during this very difficult time.
Love, Sara (Lane) Glomski & the Lane family
February 8, 2014
February 8, 2014
Today my heart is especially heavy for my Popper family. David brought so much joy to his family, and I don't know if I've ever seen a sister have as much pride for a brother as Amy has had for David. I still can't believe that he's gone, but know he is with our Heavenly Father and that we will see him again on the other side. Praying for peace and healing for you all.
February 8, 2014
February 8, 2014
I have fond memories of the young Popper family around school during the early days of Orangewood. You were (are) a delightful family.

Chuck and I trust you will feel God's loving arms wrapped tightly around you during those unexpected waves of emotion when you need HIM most.

We are sorry... Linda and Chuck Green (ie: Miss LePage)
February 8, 2014
February 8, 2014
Our most enjoyable memories of David Matthew was the time we spent together on a mission trip to Honduras. I will always remember David and our daughter Alexis, entertaining and taking care of the children. It was a wonderful time of serving, loving and laughing together. We feel very blessed to have had this time with him.
February 7, 2014
February 7, 2014
It's no wonder to me that David was so quickly liked and admired in the Navy. I feel like his personality appealed to many different types of people. He was unique, a little quirky, and very funny! We really got each other, both on and off the golf course. He was one of the few guys I've ever met that I could never be criticized by or say anything wrong, and that led to a close relationship and a myriad of inside jokes. I will never forget David Popper.
February 7, 2014
February 7, 2014
Over the last 6 years of knowing David's sister, Amy, I have had several encounters with her "little brother." I remember one of the first times we got to hang out was at one of our QP Christmas Parties. David showed up and in his usual way stayed cool and calm while Amy frantically introduced him to as many people as she could. When I finally got a chance to sit down with him around the bonfire we soon got into a very deep conversation. It became clear to me that evening that I was talking to a young man trying to figure out who he was and what life was all about... He was asking questions I hadn't found answers to or even bothered to ask myself. Skipping ahead a few years to Amy's wedding this past month, I had the pleasure of being around David again as he supported his sister. The man I encountered during those few days was not the same man I had conversed with a few years earlier. There was no question that through the ups and downs of life he had made huge strides towards his quest for self discovery. It's obvious he didn't do this alone... These posts make it very clear that he had the love of his family and friends to support him along his journey. Now he is continuing that journey alongside God and Jesus Christ in heaven. I will always remember the man who so humbly accepted praise for his service to our country, the man who deeply loved and cared for his sister, the man who respected his parents, the man who knew who he was in Christ.
February 6, 2014
February 6, 2014
Dear Popper Family:

First of all my heart has been so saddened after hearing of David's passing. Even though I didn't know David Mathew very well, I grew up hearing stories about him from his grandmother Claudine as well as from my grandmother Mabel. It seemed like he was always into mischief, like all little boys growing up, and would bring such laughter and joy to our grandmothers. I remember them just laughing and laughing when talking about him. I also remember everyone talking about what a great golfer he was. I know last time I talked to Amy at a family reunion, she said how much he loved the navy. I always thought it was so amazing how close they were as siblings and how proud Amy was of her brother. I think it is evident how much of a wonderful guy David Mathew was and how much he will be missed. I just would like to say how much I admire the Popper Family and the Christian character they have always portrayed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love,
Brooke Prince
February 6, 2014
February 6, 2014
I met David only a few times over the years, however, I feel like I knew him well through Amy's stories! His sweet spirit will be missed. I know he was so happy for Amy and her wedding just a few weeks ago. Rutledge and I pray for peace for your family during this difficult time. 

Love,
Meg and Rutledge Coleman
February 5, 2014
February 5, 2014
Dear Popper Family,

"I'm AT3 Perrodin the first time I met David was in the showers in our berthing on the ship we are both tall so our heads poked above the showers and we just started talking we were laughing so hard how casual we were about it that's how we became buddies we also were in security together we would relieve on another. The last thing he told me was take it easy today bro. Take it easy David.

Jullian Perrodin
February 5, 2014
February 5, 2014
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Popper family. David and I were assigned roommates in the dorm freshman year at Mississippi State. He was excited I had a TV and I was excited he had a Jessica Simpson poster!! David, you were a hell of a golfer and great guy. RIP buddy!
February 4, 2014
February 4, 2014
I only spent a handful of times with David, but enjoyed his company nonetheless. He was such a sweet young man who laughed at us girls a lot and for some reason always remembered me as "the girl who wore off the shoulder shirts. Haha.
David, we were all so proud of you when you joined the Navy and I wish we could have toured around San Diego during one of your times passing through. You are a gem.
February 4, 2014
February 4, 2014
Dear Popper Family,
Most of my favorite high school memories include David. Whether we were boogie boarding at the beach, playing miniature golf at the local putt-putt course (I was too embarrassed to play the real thing in front of him), or just driving around town in his 4Runner, I was always smiling when I was with David. His sense of humor was so quick and he always had me laughing. When my dad became ill several years ago, David was there for me whenever I needed a friend to talk to or to lean on. To this day, he remains one of the kindest and most caring people I have ever known. I feel so blessed to have known him. He is so loved and will be deeply missed. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Alex
February 4, 2014
February 4, 2014
Winter Park High alumni would like to express their condolences to the family.

Winter Park High (transferred from OrlandoSentinel.com)
February 4, 2014
February 4, 2014
David, Connie and Amy, I am so sadden to have heard of the loss of your son. I remember him coming in the office when I worked for you ! My prayers and love are with you !

Christine Strecker (transferred from OrlandoSentinel.com)
auntcc42@gmail.com
February 4, 2014
February 4, 2014
David, Connie and Amy,

We are so sorry to hear about the loss of David Matthew. I wish I was there to hug you all and cry with you. You are in our hearts and prayers even though we are far away. I will always remember David Matthew as that cute little boy in the carpool line with you Connie when we picked the girls up from school every day.

Matt and Lisa Allen (transfered from OrlandoSentinel.com)
February 4, 2014
February 4, 2014
I'm in complete disbelief at this point... The last time I saw Popper, we were at the bar having a great time while talking about our plans for the future, even if they became sarcastic/unrealistic at times. While the Navy sent us in different directions, I will always remember his infectious smile and the wit that constantly kept me on my toes. To his family and friends, I am truly sorry for your loss, he was a good man with a bright future ahead of him. He served his country with the kind of attitude and motivation that others should and do envy. I'm honored to have met him, and I wish him fair winds and following seas, until we meet again...
February 4, 2014
February 4, 2014
I met sweet David at Amy's wedding. While I didn't get to know him well, I got to see the joy on his face when Amy walked down the aisle. He was so happy to see Chris and Amy get married and you could see how much he loved his family. Praying for all of you.
February 4, 2014
February 4, 2014
My thoughts, prayers and sincerest condolences be with the Popper family. I met David when I checked onboard the Nimitz a year ago. We clicked because for one we both like laughing, even if the situation is "supposed" to be a serious one. And two we both speak the language of Sarcasm very well. He had a habit of making people laugh and he did it effortlessly. David, your smile and your presence will be missed.
February 4, 2014
February 4, 2014
My daily habit of reading obits within the Orlando Sentinel sometimes results in reading of people dying way too young and this one certainly qualifies. I met David, Jr. only a few times but certainly heard lots of stories about him through his Mom and Dad, all of which were consistent with the many wonderful things I have read this morning on this site. Knowing that he and his family are strong believers in our Lord gives me great comfort as only the Lord can provide us with any type of peace or comfort, and eventually perhaps some understanding, in a time such as this. David, Connie, Amy and the rest of the family, please know that I and many others are praying for you now and in the future. God bless you!
February 4, 2014
February 4, 2014
I will miss David. I had the pleasure of working with him right before he joined the Navy. Everyday he would come over to my home office and he would bring four things with him: his mega-watt smile, his high energy, his good humor and according to my wife, his good looks. We laughed all day and even managed to get some work done. One day we had little to do, so we decided to wash our cars, I never saw my car cleaner os shinier after we got done with it. Just thinking about those days brings a smile, a smile made real by David. I know he is with friends that met him on his new journey, they must all be smiling.
Charles and Eliana Saba
February 4, 2014
February 4, 2014
To the Family of David,

I only know David through the stories told to me by his mom and dad but I feel like I have seen him grow into a proud Navy man through those stories and pictures. I know that you brought light and love to your family. I wanted to share just one verse of a Hymn I love.

And with your final heartbeat
Kiss the world goodbye
Then go in peace, and laugh on Glory's side, and
Fly to Jesus
Fly to Jesus
Fly to Jesus and live!
February 4, 2014
February 4, 2014
David's was and will always be a source of pride and beautiful memories for his family and friends. May the joy of reflections on his mortal life, the precious gift of his life on earth joined with a loved and loving family and friends, ease the profound sorrow felt on his passing.
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January 29
January 29
David,

Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you and all the fun and laughs you brought to all of us. I am so grateful for all the memories and stories that we got to share. Nothing has faded, only stayed just as strong over the years. And while I cannot believe that it has been 10 years since I’ve seen you, I know you are always watching over us. In fact, I bet you’re sharing stories with Nene, Gammy, Grandpa and everyone else up there with you. 

Keep them laughing, Buddy, that was one of your gifts. With you all up there I know it’s one heck of a party with an occasional golf game, and I’m sure you have a perfect shot every hole you play.

I love you, miss you and wanted to tell you that today. We’ll talk soon.

Aunt Jodi
September 21, 2023
September 21, 2023
Hey buddy. It's not as if you don't know this already but I think about you pretty regularly. Rewatching early 00's Masters replays both thinking maybe Phil could win hahaha! And any type of situation ripping the cover off the ball of course. If you can, help me get back to where I was with ya in WPHS days with my game, been strugglin. NO Spin! I always appreciated your belief in my skills and I always had respect for yours too brother. We were the best on the team and it wasn't even really close. Funny little chapter down here, huh? You sure as hell kept me laughing...and I'm sure you still are up there. They're lucky to have ya. Miss you brother!
January 29, 2016
January 29, 2016
To David's Family and Friends,
I catch myself thinking of David, often times. Fun was the name of the time David and I worked together, right prior to going into the military. He was so proud of being in the Navy. We were so thrilled and happy for him...and sadly, David continues to be missed by those who lives he touched
Recent stories

Deployment Homecoming - December 16, 2013

March 5, 2014

I snapped this picture as David was disembarking the ship after deployment in December. I am so sorry for your loss.  May God comfort and heal you during this difficult time.  Love and blessings to all of you!

Dawn

February 7, 2014

There's too many to count, but this particular one stands out in my mind . . .

We were on campus during a break, and it just so happened to be while the south was getting hit by Hurricane Katrina (I think). David, Pete, and I were bored in the dorms and it was raining so we couldn't go to the golf course like we normally would. Around lunch time we decided to hit up the student union for some Subway, Wendy's, or whatever the other two choices were before they remodeled the place. So we get done with lunch and decide to go to the bookstore to waste a little more time before we went back to boredom in the dorms.

As we are exiting the bookstore, we start to hear the wind pick up a little bit. . . then a little bit more . . . then a lot! Over one of the commuter lots we could start to see roofing shingles spinning in the air, meanwhile the wind just kept getting louder and louder. Next thing we know, the bottom drops out and we are in a full fledged panic wondering what to do. Keep in mind that the distance between the dorms and the student union was roughly 400-500 yards (if I remember correctly). The three of us start to book it as fast as we can back to the dorms, and Dave stops dead in his tracks and yells at the top of his lungs . . . "IT'S A TORNADO!" I remember thinking "Ya think Dave! Run!" I had sandals on which was a task in itself, but we were dodging falling limbs and tripping in puddles all the way back to the dorm where everyone else was waiting on the bottom floor. As we busted to the door they all had the look on their faces that said "What the hell are you guys thinking being out there!"

Dave was one of my best friends at State, and while this is just one memory of him, there were many more on the golf course, tailgating before games, in class, meeting Jared the Subway Guy, and pretty much everwhere on campus that made my experience there a great one. He was always making his friends laugh, and always having a good time regardless of the setting. 

I'm gonna miss you buddy. 


 

February 3, 2014
David was one of my first friends in college. We had a great friendship with each other on and off the golf course. As a result of this friendship, I got to enjoy many firsts alongside this good man. First college road trip - Dreamland BBQ in Tuscaloosa. First plane ride - Las Vegas for a PGM golf tournament. First round of golf at Mississippi State...He won by 2 strokes! First year of college. First roommate in college that I got to choose (sophomore year). I learned a lot from David. His confidence in life taught me how to be confident in myself and enjoy the journey. Thank you for your friendship David, it meant the world.

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