David Scotty Hodgson

Born in Portland on October 15, 1956, to Alan and Vynone Hodgson, Dave spent his entire life rooted in the community he loved. He married the love of his life, Connie Morris on July 2, 1977, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, a place that remained central to their journey together.

Dave had a long and accomplished career as an IT Specialist at the Department of Energy, Bonneville Power Administration, where he worked for over 20 years. Though proud of his work, it was his warmth, humor, and generosity that left the deepest impression on those who knew him.

Dave was well known in the neighborhood for creating what he fondly called the “outside living room”, a front yard bench and chairs where he greeted passersby, often with a joke at the ready and dog treats in his pocket. Dogs loved him, and so did their people. His was the kind of presence that made you feel seen, welcomed, and valued.

His nickname, “Mr. Illumination,” came not only from his habit of handing out flashlights, whether at the dog park, on evening walks, or on Halloween, but also from the way he lit up people’s lives with small acts of kindness. On Halloween, he’d delight in giving trick-or-treaters Hot Wheels cars and glow sticks, ensuring kids had both joy and safety as they roamed the streets.

Dave also had a tradition for neighborhood children celebrating birthdays, he’d bring out a little treasure chest filled with shiny dollar coins, and let them count out their age in coins, tucked into a small organza bag. His joy came from their excitement, and he never missed a chance to make a moment memorable.

A man of faith, Dave was a devoted member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church, where he once sang in the choir with his daughter. He had a deep love of learning and a quiet but constant pursuit of knowledge, especially when it came to matters of faith.

Dave is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Connie Hodgson; their children, Sarah (44) and Matthew (41); his sister, Christine Youngman; and many cherished friends who were truly like family to him. Though he had no grandchildren, he had a special way of making every child in his community feel like they mattered.

Dave will be remembered for his honesty, his humor, his boundless generosity, and his unwavering kindness. He loved his family deeply, including the four-legged ones, and believed in lighting the path, literally and figuratively, for others.

A celebration of Dave’s life will be held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Portland, Oregon. Friends and family are welcome to attend. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Golden Bond Rescue (details below).

To know Dave was to be gifted with a flashlight, a smile, and a moment of warmth. His light didn’t fade with his passing — it lives on in every life he brightened.