David Christian

DAVID CHRISTIAN

Iowa City

David Christian died unexpectedly at his home May 31, 2016. A gathering to remember and celebrate his life will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 11, at Hickory Hill Park, Iowa City, (entrance off of North Dodge Street on Conklin Lane with parking along the southeast side of St. Joseph's cemetery). A brief memorial service will start at 2 p.m., followed by an informal open mic session and reception ending at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made in David's name to your local animal shelter, the Humane Society or your local food bank/local crisis center. For more information, including directions, please visit the website at Gay and Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service at www.gayandciha.com.

David was born Dec. 28, 1978, in Iowa City, the son of Roger and Christine (Fuhrmeister) Christian. He was a valedictorian of Iowa City West High (1997) and a graduate of the University of Iowa with a bachelor of arts in English (2001). He received his degree cum laude with an honors thesis on the author Charles Bukowski. During college he took part in the undergraduate writers' workshop and studied abroad in Hull, England, for a year. After college he taught English as a second language to elementary school children in Seoul, South Korea (2001-2002). David was a finalist for the 2010 Dana Award for Short Fiction.

David held various jobs while he pursued his ambition to become a published author. He designed and coordinated the manufacture of a red LED light device for treating rosacea. His company Soothing Rain sold the device worldwide. He was currently the eBay manager for University Camera, a local business in Iowa City.

David was an exceptional athlete, excelling in swimming from a young age and more recently taking up yoga. He was an excellent cook, known especially for his nutrient-rich ingredients and holiday pies. He loved vintage cameras and clothes. Halloween was his favorite holiday, for which he developed elaborate costumes, the most recent being a couple's costume portraying Grant Wood's "American Gothic" in the fashion of goth subculture. He cared deeply for animals, especially his cats, whom he had trained to sit on his shoulders. He loved a good joke and had a marvelous faux British accent. He gardened and was thrilled to see shoots of kale and Swiss chard emerging. He was a good listener and a supportive, compassionate friend. He was well-liked by all who knew him.

David is survived by his parents, Roger and Christine (Iowa City); his sister, Sarah (Sidney) Baxter (San Francisco); grandmother, Alica Christian (Foley, Alaska); his uncles, Eric Fuhrmeister (North Liberty) and Keith Christian and his family (Golden, Colo.); and Janet Pollard, the love of his life.