In Memoriam David Smith
Dave Smith, 11th August 1966 - 1st November 2016
Groups: Tyrslith, and then an uncertain series including Draum Broethr, Vara Tuatha (his own group), Myrkulf and the Provincials.
Dave in the Viking Society
Dave joined Tyrslith and the Society near the end of 1992. He was a keen member from the start, a fighter and supplier of Living History props such as authentic tent frames, a small wagon, and even a throne(!)
He joined with his wife Adie Smith and his son Daniel. They were expecting their second child at the time, James. A few years later their daughter Heather was born.
Dave was made a Drengr of the Society in 1993.
After the Tyrslith / Draum split in 1994, Dave forged his own path in the Society, associating freely with anyone he cared to and making many friends. His sense of humour was sharp, anarchic & robust, with a hint of hollyhocks and no respect for anyone's dignity.
Dave often took the name 'Eirik'. His adopted heritage was Hiberno-Norse, mainly because it let him wear shorts.
Dave fought on the field with sword and shield, but he was also a skilled archer and bowyer. He won competitions for archery within the Society.
Dave died on 1st November 2016, after a long illness. He left behind his wife Sue and 5 children. His funeral was attended by many friends from within the Vike and without.
Tributes to Dave
"There is one quote which meant a lot to Dave and I. It was a great comfort to him. We found the quote etched into a wooden arbour in one of the hospital gardens he used to go there for peace and calm during treatment. The quote is: 'I go to nature to be soothed and healed and to have my senses put in order'. By John Burroughs." - Sue Smith
"He was a great friend, a kind man and someone who enjoyed life." - Jon Finch.
"He was the best archer in the society for at least 3 years running. Miss him every day" - Mick Sprason