July 2, 1927 - Sept. 2, 2008

David Peter Cavaya, 81, of Lebanon passed away at home Tuesday.

He was born in Nehalem to Vedo Pete and Katherine (Reust) Cavaya.

David grew up in Tillamook where he graduated from high school. He then attended Oregon State University for six months, before joining the Marine Corps in 1945. He served during World War II and was part of the occupation forces in Nagasaki following the war. After his honorable discharge from the Marines in 1949, David joined the Merchant Marines and transported troops to Korea.

David married Phyllis Mae Hyre in Seattle, Wash., on April 6, 1951. David worked for Pacific Power for 34 years, living in Bend, Walla Walla, Wash., Springfield, Junction City, Enterprise, Seaside, Lakeview and Crescent City, Calif. He retired from Pacific Power in Crescent City as district manager in 1986. He then worked as a Realtor for a short time in Crescent City, where they lived for 21 years. David and Phyllis moved to Lebanon in 2004.

While in Lakeview, he was president of the chamber of commerce. He also belonged to the Elks Lodge, American Legion and VFW.

David enjoyed hunting and spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Phyllis Cavaya of Lebanon; daughter Sandra Kay Cavaya Upkes and husband Duane of Sacramento, Calif.; brother Dan Cavaya and wife Merry of Seaside; sister Evonna Sipes of Fairfield, Calif.; grandsons Treven Upkes and wife McKenzie of Salem, Quinn Upkes and wife Sarah of Washington, D.C., and Jeff Upkes and wife Kelli of Milwaukie; great-grandchildren Madeleine Upkes and Sam Upkes; special friend Ken Hambrick and wife Phyllis of Springfield; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

At his request, there will be no services.

Huston-Jost Funeral Home is handling arrangements (www.hustonjost.com).