David served the Chehalis and Onalaska districts for over 35 years and his high school ensembles were consistently rated superior at contests and festivals. In 2002, David was named Outstanding Music Educator for the WMEA Southwest Region. Coming out of retirement in 2009, Gary taught high school band, choir, and middle school choir in Onalaska, producing outstanding results. During his tenure the Onalaska band received a superior rating at the Southwest Washington Band Festival and a Gold Award at the Heritage Festival in Seattle. David has been a strong presence in his WMEA region and has contributed to the community as a conductor, euphonist and vocalist. He and his wife Vicki have four children. Their daughter Tricia has taught elementary music in Yelm, and their son Andy has taught band at North Whidbey Middle School. Their other two sons are accomplished musicians.