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David Gallupe Obituary

David Gallup was born September 27, 1951 to Jack R. Gallupe Sr. and Martha Busch Gallupe, in Greeley, Colorado. As a young child he lived with his family in Cape Canaveral, Florida when his father took an assignment with NASA. They later settled in Colorado Springs where Dave finished middle and high school. Dave earned his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs.

On May 27th, 1989, David Gallup and Tami Nelson were united in marriage, and for the rest of his life, Dave's utmost devotion was to his family. His wife Tami Gallup, son Palmer, and daughter Jamie were the heartbeat and passion of his life. Dave's profound love for his family and his commitment to honoring God, were top priorities to the very end.

At a very young age, Dave showed an amazing connection with music, and over the years it became a language he spoke from his heart. When people around him would hear a sound, Dave would hear the musical note. He was a brilliant musician with a magic ear. He could make his guitar cry like a violin. Dave's great talent made him a music-infuencer at a young

age and through it he created lifelong friendships. He continued to teach music for the next 40 years.

Dave was dearly loved, and knowing he placed his faith in Jesus as his personal Savior gives us all the hope that someday we will be reunited with him in Heaven. Dave is survived by his wife Tami, son Palmer, daughter Jamie, mother Martha, sister Dawn and two nieces, Jenn and Katie. He was preceded in death by his father Jack R. Gallupe Sr, brother Jack R. Gallupe Jr., his nephew Kevin and niece, Lydia.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Gazette from Jun. 18 to Jun. 19, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for David Gallupe

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Charlie Handy

March 3, 2024

Dave was my friend since the 9th grade. We shared the love of music and the trust and love that God provided us through our lives. I truly miss my friend and mentor.

Mark Micloskey

June 12, 2023

It has been 3 years since I first offered my tribute to Dave which can be seen here. Since then I remembered a couple of other things I can add. For one, he told me that he worked a tour with Country musician Junior Brown. He said they had some kind of friction that ended in a fight. Maybe because Mr. Brown should have been playing rhythm guitar for Dave! Secondly, I neglected to mention that during my lone jam with him in Colorado Springs (1972) some of the other musicians present were guitarists Cornelius (Neal) Marchman and Mike Reece, singer Eddie Hill and organist Roger Whitaker. I know that Mike has several excellent music videos on Youtube. Lastly, I still listen to the cassette tape I made of that jam and marvel at how musically advanced he was at age 21. I wish I had the ability to transcribe his melodies in order to record a song as a tribute to his greatness. If there are are such people with that talent, they can easily contact me on Facebook. I'd also like to add that at age 17, 6 years prior, I had found my way to the Cafe' Wha in Greenwich Village where another guitarist amazed me. His name was Jimmy James - later Jimi Hendrix. Only Dave has impressed me to a similar degree. In conclusion, after 51 years, Dave is neither forgotten nor equaled. Rest in peace. Mark Micloskey

Mark Micloskey

July 4, 2020

The one time I met Dave I was left awestruck by his virtuosity. It was Oct 1, 1972 in Colorado Springs and he came to a jam at my house and was like a force from another dimension. Many years later I tracked him down by phone on the West Coast and would always tell him how much of an impression he made on me. He was kind enough to listen to my tape and compliment my guitar playing - which could never approach his level. He also read my book and submitted a generous review. Dave was truly one of a kind and otherworldly. Someone will always admire him while I'm here. My condolences to those he left behind. Rest in peace, Maestro.

Jim Towne

June 28, 2016

Dave was a valued friend who I think of often...most every time I pick up my guitar. I have worked with many musicians over the years but Dave was one my favorites. His skill and professionalism was top notch and his lack of musical ego was noteworthy. I was honored to call Dave my friend.

Ruth Icenogle

June 22, 2016

The first time I ever saw Dave, he was on the stage in a little bar playing music as half of a duo in the mid 1970s. His musical talent and warm smile left a lasting impression on me. My family members and I had the pleasure of seeing him many times through the years. Condolences to his family and loved ones from the Icenogle family in Colorado.

Tom Inks

June 22, 2016

Dave was not only an amazing guitar player, he was one of the nicest guys I've ever known. Despite Dave's amazing guitar virtuosity, he seemed to be without ego--SO easy to work with. I had the pleasure and privilege of working with Dave in a band in the summer of 1988. He often had a smile on his face that reflected how much he enjoyed playing and performing. Dave brought some eclectic songs to the band, and he played them with such ease and precision ("Memphis," "Secret Agent Man," and the guitar instrumental "Apache"). I will remember Dave with great fondness for the rest of my life.

Chuck Frazier

June 21, 2016

Dave was my friend for many years. As was his brother Jack; great memories of two unique and very talented men, we shared a lot of laughs and music together. I know he's playing with his brother and other pals who've passed on in the great by and by. A good man has left this life, and you will be missed.

Jon Mitguard

June 20, 2016

Dave was fine musician and a real nice guy. When I was in my infancy as a musician he was a major inspiration. Everybody admired him, though he was so damn humble. I still remember his beautiful hands pulling out yet another tasty and thoughtful solo or fill. He never thought it was good enough but we all were in awe. Thank You Dave and RIP at the great jam beyond.

Jon Mitguard

June 20, 2016

Dave was such a fine player and a super nice guy. I still remember his beautiful hands pulling out yet another perfect musical phrase from his guitar. He was a great inspiration to me in my musician infancy.

Stephen Foster

June 20, 2016

For the times I worked with him, Dave was a good friend and an exceptional musician. He was one of those kind of folks who was always a friend even if time and distance divided us.

June 19, 2016

Sending my condolences to the family. May God give you strength and peace during this difficult time. ( Ps.29:11 )

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