In memory of Dave Hrachovina
It is with immense sadness that we share the news that beloved Southwest Seattle Historical Society docent and member Dave Hrachovina passed away on November 20, 2020. Dave was an enthusiastic champion of the Historical Society and the history of the Duwamish Peninsula who enjoyed sharing his knowledge with the Log House Museum’s many visitors.
Dave was born in Seattle and graduated from Chief Sealth High School before studying at Concordia Jr. College in Portland, Oregon, Concordia Sr. College in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, and Concordia Theological Seminary during its years of transition from Springfield, Illinois, and Fort Wayne, Indiana. Dave was ordained at Hope Lutheran Church in Seattle and served as a pastor at congregations in Idaho until 2010, when he returned to West Seattle.
Dave cared greatly about local history and felt a particularly strong connection to Alki. He shared his deep knowledge about Seattle’s early history with thousands of museum visitors and area school groups. Many of you have likely been welcomed to a visit at the Log House Museum by Dave’s signature ‘Klahowya’ greeting. Dave also valued the sense of community fostered within the Historical Society’s volunteer cohort. Historical Society volunteer coordinator Amanda Gilbert recalled, “Dave was thrilled that all the docents were willing to hold our quarterly meeting at The Kenney [where he lived in recent years] . . . he was touched that people cared enough to do it and that he could see everyone.”
To learn more about Dave’s interest in and knowledge of our local history, please check out the videos below:
Dave is greatly missed by the entire Historical Society community. We are grateful for the years we shared with Dave and for the knowledge and passion he shared with us. We extend our heartfelt condolences to all of Dave’s family and friends.
