David Herbert Hauser

76 years – we all agree – was too short a life for David Herbert Hauser. A diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease in the early summer progressed quickly, and David passed away peacefully September 9th 2021 under the tender care of his wife and in the company of close family. Just two months prior, David was enjoying his “chore” of yard mowing. Grinning from ear to ear on his new orange Kubota tractor, he was recognized by neighbors many yards away. Condolences poured in from family and the community as they shared fond memories of David’s kindness, generosity, and helpful demeanor. He emulated the ideal citizen of the Clemmons, North Carolina community of which he was so proud. Born to Herbert and Kathlyn Hauser on February 28th 1945 in Baltimore, Maryland, David grew up in Winston-Salem graduating from R.J. Reynolds High School. Attending NC State engineering school led to a stint being a VISTA Volunteer working with residents of Iowa. Later he served in the U.S. Army as he fought in the Vietnam War with his weapon, a camera, and writing for the Red Catcher. David had a knack for photography and writing that he turned into employment as he became the associate editor of the local Clemmons Courier newspaper. Never turning down a free meal, David accepted an invitation from a neighbor where he met a girl from Ohio – Vicki. She married the “mustache phase” of David in 1975, citing being allured by his southern charm. David found his entrepreneurial spirit having two businesses to run by 1999. Hauser Publications (printing), and Tarheel Roller & Brayer (letterpress/roller making) were also his hobbies, sharing his design skills and preserving history. This energy extended into his leadership of the Clemmons Historical Society, contributing to the official Clemmons history book, and achieving “member of the year 2015” in the Clemmons Civic Club. The annual pancake breakfast was a highlight for David who never knew a stranger in the community that he valued so much. A dedicated member of the Clemmons United Methodist Church and the Methodist Men’s group, David sustained his work for the community through his faith. A regular usher and speaker, David was always keen on the popcorn shrimp special on Sundays after service.

David is survived by his wife, Vicki, of 46 years, sister Pam McNeill (John), daughter Beth Barrington (Adam), son Brent Hauser (Jillian) , five grandchildren, Remy and Hugh Barrington, Henry, Clark, and Lucia Hauser, aunt Virginia Rutledge Nelson, and many nieces, nephews and cousins whom David always appreciated the company of. Being self-employed enabled David to enjoy a broad range of small things in life: fishing with his young children, taking them to Tanglewood, playing catch, sledding in the snow, vegetable gardening, woodworking, and collecting informative books. Sharing his pleasure in trains through model railroading and visits to Spencer, NC, were cherished family memories. David always rocked those white New Balance “Dad” shoes and delivered the typical “Dad” jokes, often hollering “Crunch!” if a parking maneuver was too close. David enjoyed being a regular at his favorite Biscuitville, leveraging that senior coffee before the daily ritual to the YMCA to walk and talk in circles, both literally and figuratively, on the “track of life” with anyone who would listen.

David’s “Grandpa” years included the perfect “granddaughter on a tree swing at sunset” moments, as well as reading Dr. Suess to his grandsons. He offered his favorite lemon Oreos while announcing various life wisdoms like “enjoy eating while you can” and always giving his toothy grin when sharing the latest “good gracious!” moment to us all. “Well, we love you!” was always the parting sentiment his kids heard backing out of the driveway. The family extends immense gratitude to the wonderful care and support given to David and Vicki by the employees of Trellis Hospice Care during the final days of his life, as well as the members of Clemmons United Methodist, and his friends and neighbors.

A memorial service to celebrate David’s life is planned at a later date when Covid-19 is less extensive. Please request more information or send condolences by emailing bdhauser@gmail.com. Memorial donations may be made to Clemmons United Methodist Church, 3700 Clemmons Road, Clemmons NC, 27012, or to Trellis Supportive Care, 101 Hospice Lane, Winston-Salem, NC 27103. You may also honor David by following his unspoken golden rule to “treat others as you want to be treated.”

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