David Kaler, Tucson, AZ, in memorium

David Kaler, a PDA pioneer, former Arizona State Coordinator and spokesperson for PDA in Arizona, and chair of the first Tucson PDA meeting, died this afternoon, after two massive heart attacks. He was was playing cards at friends’ home just last weekend, lively and loving until the end. He was surrounded by friends who loved him when he died.

David had been very active in the Kucinich campaign and Department of Peace movement, and has given many hours to the election integrity movement in Arizona, and to many political campaigns. If David supported you, you had a friend indeed!

In 2004, he had formed a statewide group, Arizona Democratic Progressive Caucus, later putting it in the service of PDA national leadership to grow the progressive movement in Arizona. His group later became the Arizona Progressive Council, when he generously transferred the name of his group to the Arizona in-party caucus, and until recently he was involved in forming progressive “conversation cafes” to have a place to move progressive ideas forward; he had been interested in forming a progressive think tank before his health failed.

Ted Downing invites all who knew and loved David to come to a celebration of David’s life tomorrow evening (Sat. Dec. 9, 6pm). Bring stories, maybe something that David wrote to you…. some food or drink to share with others around the fire pit. Let’s give David a good send off with our love. If you are long distance as you read this, and want to send something to me, I will share it at the celebration. (revgerry@progressiveazdems.org )

David Kaler lovingly dedicated his life to making the world a more peaceful place. He will be greatly missed by many, and remembered for gentle wisdom, and his many contributions in our community and beyond.

May he find the peace he has so long sought.