Boyd David Lake

June 2, 1941 – February 23, 2026

With gratitude for a life filled with faith, family, and joyful moments, we celebrate the life of Boyd “Dave” David Lake—a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose kindness, curiosity, and integrity touched all who knew him.

Dave was born on June 2, 1941, in Secane, Pennsylvania, to Dorothy and Boyd Lake, the oldest of three children. As the eldest, he naturally became someone his sisters looked up to and admired. He attended Ridley Township High School, graduating in 1959, where his love of sports and lifelong friendships began.

On June 20, 1964, Dave married the love of his life, Elizabeth Brogan. Together they built a beautiful life rooted in faith, commitment, and family. They moved to Richmond, Virginia, where they welcomed their two children, Becky and Boyd, who quickly became the great joys of their lives. Elizabeth preceded Dave in passing just a few months before him, and the love they shared remains a lasting part of his legacy.

Dave enjoyed a remarkable career with Ford Motor Company, beginning shortly after graduating from college and remaining there throughout his entire professional life. He often summarized his priorities with a phrase those close to him heard many times: the “three F’s” — Faith, Family, and Ford—always in that order.

Faith guided Dave throughout his life. His growing understanding of what his faith called him to be made him thoughtful and reflective. He asked questions, sought wisdom, and never stopped trying to better understand God, life, and the people around him. His spiritual curiosity shaped the way he lived—with humility, generosity, and compassion for others.

Family stood at the center of Dave’s life. He loved his children deeply and showed that love through his presence, encouragement, and humor. He played sports with them, shared life lessons freely, and was always there in any life situation with steady love and support. One especially memorable chapter in family lore was his attempt to teach his daughter Becky how to drive—an effort remembered today with laughter and affection.

Dave had a joyful spirit and found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He loved sports, grilling for family gatherings, singing along to Mills Brothers songs, and enjoying a good chicken pot pie. He loved deeply and laughed often, bringing warmth and light to the people around him.

To his sisters, Dave was more than a brother—he was someone they admired. Because of the age difference, they often looked up to him, especially when he would bring his football friends home. He also had a playful spirit. One Christmas, when his sisters were beginning to question whether Santa Claus was real, Dave suddenly announced that he had seen Santa outside the window and that they had better hurry to bed. They believed him immediately, because they never imagined their brother would ever lie about something so important.

Music and family celebrations were also part of Dave’s joyful spirit. One treasured moment came when he danced to the Mills Brothers’ “Daddy’s Little Girl” with his daughter at her wedding—a moment filled with pride, tenderness, and unmistakable love.

Later in life, Dave experienced one of his greatest joys—being Grandad to his five grandchildren. He adored Connor, Brogan, Ryan, Meghan, and Jackson, and he took great pride in helping guide them as they grew into adulthood. He shared wisdom, encouragement, and strong values with each of them, leaving a legacy that will continue through their lives.

Those who knew Dave often described him with two simple but powerful words: love and integrity. He was truly a man of his word—someone who showed up, stood by the people he loved, and lived with honesty and conviction.

Dave is survived by his children Becky and Boyd, his cherished grandchildren Connor, Brogan, Ryan, Meghan, and Jackson, his sisters, extended family, and many dear friends whose lives were brightened by his generosity and spirit.

Though he passed away on February 23, 2026, Dave’s legacy lives on in the faith he practiced, the love he gave freely, and the family he cherished so deeply.

Scripture Reflection

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.”

— Matthew 25:23

Dave’s life reminds us that the greatest legacy we can leave is faith in God, love for family, and kindness toward all people.