I first met Dave when he was managing director of NASD, the service division of NARDA.  I was relatively new in my business career and knew little of this industry.  Dave approached me and not only asked me to join NASD, but also asked if I would accept a position on the Board of Directors. I accepted.  About a year or so later, we began serious discussion of forming a new trade association dedicated to service.  I remember several trips to Chicago, where Dave lived at the time, and where we made all the plans for USA in his home. One trip was during a snowstorm that was pretty intense. Something this Southern California boy is not used to. Dave picked Marc Fearnehough and I up at the hotel and we were driving to Dave's home.  He said "Look, there's the airport". I couldn't see a thing. All I saw was snow going sideways. Yes, I was a bit nervous but I have several fond memories of working with Dave to plan and organize USA.

Dave soon resigned his position with NARDA to assume the managing director's position with USA. Although we agreed on a salary, we were unable to pay him. Dave was the consummate professional.  He worked out of his home in an upstairs converted bedroom. As Nancy would say, he dressed with a shirt  and tie every day and would go upstairs to his office, and stay for a full 8 hours, only breaking for lunch. Dave did this for years until we were able to hire some staff. I don't think Dave ever received a regular paycheck. He was dedicated to USA and was the driving force behind our professionalism and our commitment to education.

Dave loved this industry and always insisted on absolute professional conduct.  He was also tireless in his management of the association.  I remember many times, as a board member in those early days, that at conventions we would conduct our board meetings in the only time we had available;early in the morning before activities started. Without Dave, USA would not exist. I will always remember the influence Dave had on my business career. He taught me professionalism and to be a student of my industry.....always learning. 

I know Dave was given lifetime membership in USA, but I would urge the Board of Directors to honor Dave with something permanent in his memory for his contributions to USA.

Larry Bergo