David Francher Stevens

David Stevens, a resident of Napa for over 25 years died on April 10, 2018. He is survived by his wife, Susan Stevens, and their daughters Molly and Emma Stevens. He was predeceased by his parents, David Stevens and Nell Lukens.

Born and raised in Walla Walla where his father was an economics professor at Whitman College, David graduated from Williams College in 1983 with a degree in economics. It was at Williams that he met his wife and love of his life, Susan. They married in 1987. After teaching middle school science in Maine while Susan was a medical student, they moved to UC Davis where he earned a Master's Degree in Food Science (Viticulture and Enology). He has continued to teach at UC Davis and Napa Valley College.

After settling in Napa in 1992, the next decade was spent as a winemaker for several local wineries. About 15 years ago he established his own consulting firm, Davon International, concentrating on wine production, locally, elsewhere in California as well as internationally. For many years, he judged at wine competitions

David's constant focus and greatest source of joy and pride was always his family. His love and devotion to Susan, Molly and Emma defined his life. He was a terrific and ever-present dad. David was a happy person with a wonderful sense of humor, who truly savored his friendships, fostered and enriched these relationships and brought out the best in people. He was an enthusiastic and gifted teacher. David was deeply competitive in parlor games with friends and family including scopa, cribbage and Monopoly. He loved baseball and especially the Oakland A's and had a soft heart for “the third team”, the umpires. David found peace and great pleasure in the beauty of nature, ranging from the weekend “walkies” in the Napa Valley to the magnificent grandeur of our national parks. Mount Rainier and Lassen were his particular favorites.

A memorial service will be held at St Mary's Episcopal Church, 1917 3rd St, in Napa on Saturday, April 21st at 11 am.

Gifts in his memory can be made to either: David Stevens Internship Program Endowment (established in honor of David's father), Whitman College, 345 Boyer Ave, Walla Walla WA 99362, Washington's National Park Fund, 1904 3rd Ave #400, Seattle WA 98101, or a charity of your choice.

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