David A. Sauvé Sr. died April 21, 2016, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Puyallup, surrounded by family.

He was born March 6, 1934, in Los Angeles, Calif., to the late George and Mary (Brown) Sauvé. He served as a paratrooper during the Korean War and later entered the construction trade, first as a laborer, then as a carpenter and eventually as a builder. He married Marilyn Sumner on Feb. 24, 1957, in Van Nuys, Calif., and they resided in California until moving to South Prairie in 1967. He enjoyed writing, often reciting favorite poems, and is remembered for giving unique nicknames.

He is survived by wife Marilyn; sons David Sauvé Jr. and William Sauvé, both of South Prairie, and Robert Sauvé of Tacoma; daughters Julie (Billy) of Ravensdale and Aimee (Zaideh) of South Prairie; brother George Sauvé of Escondido, Calif.; 14 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by brothers Donald and James and sister Jeanne.

A celebration of his life is planned for 2 p.m. Saturday, May 21, at Rainier Hills Christian Fellowship, 23711 Entwhistle Rd., Buckley, Wash. 98321.