| Bob Plummer (9 RARA – SA) has reported David’s death. “It is with mixed feelings that I advise you that David Stacey passed away at 12:15 this morning after a long and stoic battle with cancer. Mixed feelings of sadness that such a strong and gentle soul has left our company but also relief that such a long period of pain and suffering is now over. I will pass on details of David’s funeral service, which will be held in Mt Barker SA, when known. 22Alpha has signed off”. |
David was born and raised on his family’s farm in the Strathalbyn SA area. He trained as a wool classer before being balloted for National Service in 1967. He joined the newly formed 9 RAR at Woodside SA and served with them in Vietnam in B Company 5 Platoon as an infantryman.
After military service he returned to rural life and dairy farming and participation in the SA Dairy Farming Association. He became an active participant and leader in rural community activities (church, scouts and veterans support including honorary positions on the RSL Strathalbyn Branch Management Committee and as president of the 9 RAR Association SA.
David was truly a gentle man who epitomised both the RAR’s motto Duty First and the RAR Association’s motto Keeping the Spirit Alive. He was a person who by his actions displayed the values we as Australian’s treasure; care and mutual respect for others, mateship and dedication to service above self. The Regiment offers its condolence to his wife Janet, children Merrin and James and grandchildren. Rest in Peace.
| David’s Funeral Service. David Hugh Stacey born 16 September 1946 passed away 24 August 2021 Aged 74 years Beloved and loving husband of Janet for 51 years devoted father, father-in-law and grandfather “Pa” of Merrin and Alistair, Declan and Arabella James and Rachael, Zac, Tiana and Ashton Due to Covid-19 restrictions and strict numbers at venues for funeral services the Funeral Service for David will be a private/family affair to be held on Friday 3rd September at 2 pm. Messages of of condolences can be sent to Bob Plummer [email protected] who will pass them to the Family. |
Homeward Bound
I saw the shooting star burning so bright
Falling, falling, fading and soon from sight
So distant and yet so near
In its wake, a soldier’s journey so very clear
No longer a mortal in life’s short race
A contented spirit bound for home somewhere in distant space
This fiery trail I saw tonight marks a warrior’s farewell
Leaving behind another legacy of proud deeds to tell
George Mansford©April 2012
