David Shane Bolerjack ended this life’s journey and began his next just before dawn on Nov. 20, 2016. He had struggled with cancer for almost four years; when it became clear there would be no escape, he made the conscious choice to lean into the experience and face his eventual death rather than deny it. It was a remarkable choice, as it meant that he would be aware of what was happening to him, and it was not easy… but there were many gifts along the way.
David’s choices led him to a home in the woods which became his sanctuary, his sacred retreat, and it was there that he prepared, with help of his loving family and a few special friends, to translate from his earthly form into the higher. He derived great spiritual strength from MasterPath and his teacher, Sri Gary Olsen. David was ever gracious (despite his discomfort at being in the spotlight of attention from those who loved him), brave, and courageous, inspiring all who were blessed to be in his company. He inspires still.
Not being one who is attracted to gloom and doom, David sought humor as a release, especially with his brothers. He was a huge fan of The Three Stooges, and that is a big clue to his way of looking at the world. Being a poet and musician, he continued to play his guitar until just a few weeks ago. He enjoyed walks in the woods and sitting on a special bench along the lane, where he and grandson, Shane, shared picnics and invented stories about Gruffalos and flying dragons.
He participated in a painting project that his wife, Pam, initiated, wherein everyone who came to visit was invited to paint. There are now eight completed collaboratively-created canvases, each expressing the beauty and faith of David and his family, friends, and care-giver/collaborators. And all the while, excellent food was prepared and heartily enjoyed, especially when eaten on the decks watching for the fox to make its appearance.
David is survived by Pam, his wife (and so much more) of 36 years; his three steadfast brothers, Stewart, Byrum, and Nathan, and their awesome wives. He had two sons of whom he was intensely proud: Derek (who came to him in what David called “a package deal,” since Pam arrived with a four-year-old) and Timothy. Both sons are tender, funny, smart, and continue to be a blessing. Timothy and Jennifer brought David’s first grandchild, Shane, into his life; Derek and Leah brought Lewis; and, oh my, what joy and amazement ensued! Being “Poppa” was the best!
David was a veteran, proudly serving in the Navy aboard the USS Enterprise in the mid-1970s, and enjoyed an eclectic work history. He worked all over the place: Tysons, Kraft, and as a (very poor) house painter. He became an ophthalmic technician and a paralegal. A stickler for neatness and organization, he often said he loved being a clerk the best, because of the satisfaction derived from the shuffling of paper. Seriously…
There will be a “Celebrative Gathering to Remember David Shane Bolerjack” on Friday, Dec. 9, at the Crescent Hotel Conservatory from 6 – 8 pm. There will be music, food, laughter, probably a few tears, and many stories shared. The paintings will be displayed. Please come.
Memorial donations will be welcomed by The Clear Spring School, Circle of Life Hospice, or Loaves and Fishes Food Bank.