Published September 27, 2019
MELROSE — David O. Thistle, 69, a longtime resident of Melrose, passed away suddenly on September 6, 2019.
David was born in Melrose on February 23, 1950, one of two children of the late Oliver and Effie M. (Smith) Thistle. He was raised in Melrose where he graduated from Melrose High School in 1968.
He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving honorably in Vietnam in a secure communications role with the USMC 2-1. He received the National Defense Service Medal, Marksman Badge, and the Vietnam Service Medal before his honorable discharge on July 1, 1971 as a Lance Corporal. A dedicated patriot and proud veteran, Dave then served in the Marine Corps Reserves for four more years.
Following work at a secure detention facility for adolescents, where he was known as “Uncle Dave,” David began a career with what would become Verizon. He was a lineman and an installer, and served as shop steward, then chief steward for his IBEW Local. Dave was a powerful union advocate and supportive voice for his colleagues. For many years, he worked in partnership with Verizon and the Veterans Affairs Department to facilitate the installation of bedside phones and then computers in VA hospitals across the country. His testimony on behalf of this great project, “PT Phone Home,” is on permanent record in the archives in Washington, D.C. Dave was a strong and committed voice for veterans throughout his life, and insisted on doing what was right and just for all.
David was also a passionate and joyous motorcycle enthusiast. Whenever and wherever he rode his 1985 Harley-Davidson, he felt on top of the world. Whether on old New England roads or on that great trip to the rally in Sturgis, South Dakota, he was most content when on his “bike,” and he held dear his fellow riders.
He was especially proud to ride with his Vietnam brothers and sisters to The Wall on Memorial Day in the company of Rolling Thunder. He was humbled to lay a wreath each year in honor of those who gave their lives, and to connect with other Viet vets, known or unknown to him.
Dave was a member of the Woburn Sportsman Club where he enjoyed target shooting. He ran the Boston Marathon, among others, and loved a good game of pool.
David will be remembered for his faith in God, which was at the core of his living. He spoke of his gratitude for his family and “the best parents anyone could have.” He had a strong moral character and believed in always doing what was right, to the best of his ability. He told the truth and he had a burning thirst for justice on behalf of those whose lives were dismissed or diminished in any way.
He was the cherished son of the late Oliver and Effie (Smith) Thistle and the beloved brother of the Rev. Judith A. Thistle of Worcester, N.Y. He is also survived by cousins in Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, and the States. Special thanks to Barbara, Dan and Bob, and to all who held David constantly in their prayers. He will be deeply missed, but always lovingly remembered.
If you would honor David, be swift and strong as you reach out to others in need of a hand to help them up, a shoulder to lean on, an ear to listen, and the heart to walk beside them on their journey.
Family and friends are invited to gather in honor and remembrance of David for visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Saturday, September 28 from 1-2 p.m., followed by his Life Celebration at 2 p.m. Interment at a later date will be held with Marine Corps honors at the Arlington National Cemetery. For online tribute or directions visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
