A Tribute to Dave Dalthorp, The Statesman

Our community lost a great one this past week.  Dave Dalthorp, nicknamed "The Statesmen" by our close peers passed away and left a lasting legacy behind him.  I first met Dave in 1987 when I joined KNDU TV as Sports Director.  He was genuine from the start, even though I was fresh out of college and I really didn't know what I was getting into.  He always made me feel at ease with his tremendous support, no matter what the circumstances.

Dave was not only a mentor, but a great friend as well.  I always knew I could talk to Dave about anything.  His door was always open and he always listened.  He always had great advice, and his best attribute was his ability to shield his employees from the sometimes harsh things that can happen in the corporate world we live in.  He also never showed the stress he was going through.

Dave made many friends while serving as the Station Manager at KNDU TV.  He was respected by everyone, and admired by all.  He loved the WSU Cougars, and he was a die hard Pasco Bulldog.  He loved to fish, and he loved to talk about fishing.  I remember sharing a Salmon I caught and will never forget the look on his face when I gave it to him.  I will never forget the 11 foot Sturgeon we caught at Hell's Canyon on a team building trip, and how proud he was of the catch, and his team.

He glowed when he talked about his wife Herta, and tears would come to his eyes whenever you talked about something that was dear to his heart.  I miss having "a cold one" with Dave, but more importantly, I will miss the man.

May your wonderful soul rest in peace.   Your family has a lot to be proud of.

RIP Dave Dalthorp, The Statesman.