David Brian Hellberg

David Brian Hellberg, 73, of Knappa, Ore., passed away March 22, 2015, in Portland.

David was born in Astoria to his parents, Carl and Sylvia Hellberg, who preceded him in death. His siblings Dick and Kay live in the area to this day.

At a height of 6 feet 5 inches, he was a skilled basketball player for his Astoria High School. He had attained scholarships as a result, and attended several colleges, but never found a focus in which to commit to degree. He enlisted in the Navy and served in the Vietnam area, prior to official hostilities there, between attending colleges.

He met his wife, LindaLou, at Central Washington State College, and she survives him. They were married in 1967 and have four children, Davey, Brian, Aleda, and Lukas. He has seven grandchildren, Katie, Cassie, Luke, Justin, Hannah, Megan, and Amanda; and a great-granddaughter, Anna Lee.

He worked as a longshoreman to support his family, and retired early due to disability brought on by arterial disease.

He was known to hunt and fish for sport, and shared stories of commercial fishing in Alaska. Enjoying the solitude of nature, Big Dave also loved people. There will be many who will remember singing and playing songs around his backyard fire circle or living room.

His family will recount a life filled with kindness to his friends and dedication to his family. A philosopher at heart, and working man by trade, he took those into his home who had need and tried to help others find their way in the world, even when he himself had trouble finding it. He believed that the most important things in life are people. He will be gravely missed.

Visitation will be held Saturday, March 28, 2015, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Caldwell’s Luce-Layton Mortuary. Funeral services will follow at 2 p.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, 565 12th St., Astoria, Ore.

Graveside services will be held the following Saturday, April 4, 2015, at 2 p.m. at Ocean View Cemetery in Warrenton, Ore.