David Bewick Syme

After a long illness, Dave passed away peacefully on Christmas Day in the arms of his family.

Dave was predeceased by his parents, James and Helen Syme; his brothers, Bill and Oscar (Mimi); and sister, Gus (Bill).

Dave’s early years were spent in Wyoming and Colorado during the Great Depression.  His family moved to Albuquerque in 1936 where he spent the rest of his life.  Dave graduated from Albuquerque High in 1946 and enlisted in the Army during the Korean conflict.  After his service he entered UNM on the GI Bill and began his lifelong connection to the University.  He entered as a student and a member of the Lobo Basketball Team then served 36 years as the Official Timekeeper in the Pit.  After graduating from UNM with a master’s degree, Dave spent the rest of his career with APS as a teacher and Elementary School Principal.

Dave leaves behind a loving and grieving family.  He and his wife Pat were married for almost 60 years.  They have two beloved daughters, Deborah Vahabzadegan and Valerie Anderson (JR Stevens).  Dave deeply loved and took care of his family including his three Grandsons, James Anderson (Raquel), Luke Anderson and Patrick Vahabzadegan.  Dave also leaves behind his nieces and nephews, Roberta Syme (Jerry Rightman), Pete Syme, Bill Syme (Joyce Phillips), Gale Lovato (George) and Frere McNamara, as well as his English family in the United Kingdom, Valerie Munks (Dave), Sue Lenox (Dave), David Calder (Andrea), and was predeceased by John Taylor, Pat’s beloved brother.

All through his life Dave made and valued his dear friends, his colleagues, his British connections and of course, his golfing buddies.  Golf was his main recreational activity after retirement achieving the amazing feat of 7 hole in one!  The parties at the Syme house will always be long remembered.

Dave and Pat traveled extensively throughout the US and Canada, frequently camping with friends and family.  They also visited the United Kingdom many times, these memories are precious.  Dave was a quiet man, strong in body and mind.  He maintained the deep integrity and values he developed as a child.  His family knows how blessed they were to have him in their lives for so long and will miss him forever.  Sleep well Dave!

Special thanks to Kindred Hospice for their care and attention to his comfort and wellbeing.  Memorial donations may be made to Roadrunner Food Bank or your favorite charity.