David Cox

Aug 16, 1943 -

Sep 17, 2020

Captain David "Dave" L. Cox USNR, retired, of Palmer, Alaska, passed on Thursday, Sept. 17, 2020.

Dave was born in Washington state, but spent the first years of his life in California. His formative years were spent in Waitsburg and Dayton, Wash. He graduated from Waitsburg High School and went on to earn both a bachelor's and master's degree from Washington State University.

Dave began his 35-year military career as an army recruit, where he earned both Good Conduct and Defense Service medals. Following his active duty, Dave joined the U.S. Naval Reserve. He retired as a U.S. Navy Captain, Naval intelligence Cmd (NCIS) Reserve. Having eared the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for meritorious service while serving as Commanding Officer, Naval Reserve Joint Intelligence Center Pacific. As a civilian Dave had 33-year long career in federal law enforcement with the federal government working for both General Services Administration and Federal Aviation Administration.

Dave was a lifelong fisherman. Everyone who spent time fishing with Dave knew how passionate he was about the sport. A few of us even had the pleasure of watching him dive in after the one that got away. As a young man Dave coached youth soccer teams for his son and daughter. In his retirement he spent many years traveling, practicing photography and researching genealogy.

Dave married the love of his life, Marsha Miller. Marsha was the center of his world and mother to his two children. Their 53-year long love story ended only with his passing.

He is survived by his wife, Marsha; daughter, Alanna; son, David and his wife Stephanie; grandchildren, David, Michael and Cassidy; and brothers, Chris Cox and David Sandford.

A memorial will be planned for November in Palmer, Alaska, at a date and time to be determined.