David Robert Buchanan

Jul 12, 1944 -

Jul 11, 2021

David was born to Harold and Ruth Buchanan of New Jersey in 1944.

He attended Moody Bible Institute where he met the love of his life, Judy (Lorch). His college education was interrupted by his service in the U.S. Marine Corps as a Vietnam Era veteran. They were married during this time. Following military service, Dave continued his education completing his Bachelor of Science in missionary radio technology and FCC Commercial Radio Telephone License. These skills were put to use while Dave and Judy were appointed as technical missionaries with Send International and served a term on staff at KCAM in Glennallen, Alaska. They have spent the last 40 plus years in Eagle River, Alaska.

Dave's employment career was mixed between public service and pastoral ministry. He served as pastor of Faith Bible Church in Chugiak and later as adult ministry pastor at Wasilla Bible Church. He retired as a Veterans Representative with the Alaska Department of Labor.

His hobbies included amateur radio, gardening and playing his saxophone in community and church bands.

His 54 years of marriage to Judy were filled with commitment, affection, compassion, humor and dreams. Their life together was lived around shared purpose, faith, family, gardening and music. Dave was a devoted father. He lovingly supported and encouraged each of his three children to follow their passions and dreams. He connected with each of his 10 grandchildren regularly with an intimate knowledge of their lives and interests. He will always be their beloved "Poppy."

Dave had a long commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ, beginning with his acknowledgement of needing a Savior and Redeemer at the age of 8. His has been a lifetime walk of study, service, teaching, encouragement and Kindom ministry.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Ruth Buchanan; and sisters, Nancy Erhard and Becky Hendricks.

Dave is survived by his wife, Judy; son, Rhett (Rebecca) Buchanan of Wasilla; son, Lance (Kathleen) Buchanan of Rockport, Maine; and daughter, Heather (Josh) Jacoby of Victor, Idaho; and 10 grandchildren, Layne, Toby, Breeze and Britta Buchanan of Wasilla, Declan and Teague of Rockport, and Arden, Asher, Daisha and Salim of Victor. He also has one surviving sister, Lois (Ralph) Hansen of Florida.

A celebration of life will be held at Community Covenant Church in Eagle River on Aug. 13, 2021, at 7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to TransWorld Radio, Wycliffe Bible Translators or Community Covenant Church, Eagle River.