We created a GatheringUs memorial to celebrate the life of David Cageao. Collecting your stories and memories here will offer us great comfort. Click on the heart to let us know you were here and to receive email updates. Thank you for contributing to this lasting memorial.
Julie, Nia and Vinnie xxx
"It is with great sadness that Broadclyst Basketball Club have learnt of the passing away of Dave Cageao.
Dave was a popular member of the club who represented Broadclyst for a number of seasons in both the 1st and 2nd teams.
He brought a small piece of... more"It is with great sadness that Broadclyst Basketball Club have learnt of the passing away of Dave Cageao.
Dave was a popular member of the club who represented Broadclyst for a number of seasons in both the 1st and 2nd teams.
He brought a small piece of New York to Broadclyst with his enthusiasm for the game which infectious and inspired those who came into contact with him both on and off the court.
Through his job as a teacher at Millfield school, Dave also introduced many youngsters to the game he loved and would often talk about his teams with pride to other members of the club.
Dave leaves a wife and young family. Our thoughts are with Dave’s family and friends at this difficult time.
Dave, there is a game on up there, that is being graced by some great players and characters, your time has come too soon for you to join them. 😞🤗
RIP
A reminder to all in these difficult days, that basketball is a great community, and take some time to reach out to those that you haven’t seen for a while, if you are struggling, you are not alone and we are here for you #onefamily" less
I met Julie and Dave when they were already a perfectly, truly-madly-deeply in love 'team'. Dave was always hilarious, outrageous, smiling, up for a laugh at just about anyone's expense - including his own.
I responded once, and got properly pranked for... moreI met Julie and Dave when they were already a perfectly, truly-madly-deeply in love 'team'. Dave was always hilarious, outrageous, smiling, up for a laugh at just about anyone's expense - including his own.
I responded once, and got properly pranked for my half-arsed quip - returning to Camp Sequoia after my day off to find Dave had rearranged my bunk area in a very imaginative way...
Julie helped me prank back by pinching all his basketball shirts, that all of us waitresses wore to serve dinner the next evening - a damp squib of a prank that got me an 'Old Trout' T-shirt for my birthday, that I still have somewhere...
Dave didn't win Miss Sequoia, but he gave it his best shot!
And as Best Man to Chris & Anna Cofer, he hosted fantastic stag/hen dos at Alice's place - only some of which we all remember, but thanks to Dave you just know that it was awesome!
Dave, so hugely loved, a massive loss, the world is a lesser place without you my friend 💙 less
Getting to know Dave and Julie since joining the Cageao family has been so special. Andrew and I started our relationship in a similar way so I have always felt you guys were like our unofficial role models.
Nothing was ever too much trouble, not even... moreGetting to know Dave and Julie since joining the Cageao family has been so special. Andrew and I started our relationship in a similar way so I have always felt you guys were like our unofficial role models.
Nothing was ever too much trouble, not even a $30 jar of dill in the most eye wateringly expensive village store in Acadia, the missing ingredient for a fish pie!!
He even took Andrew and I Pokémon hunting on the country roads in Glastonbury at night as apparently that's when the good ones were out!!
Dave's kindness, generosity and humour are unforgettable. I love that it will live on in Nia and Vinnie. xx less
My cousin Dave, was one of my best friends. He’s 2 months older than me. We grew up together. We were always together. He was Batman , I was Robin. I have so many memories, pictures, experiences with him. They’ll never fit in this page…. I do want... moreMy cousin Dave, was one of my best friends. He’s 2 months older than me. We grew up together. We were always together. He was Batman , I was Robin. I have so many memories, pictures, experiences with him. They’ll never fit in this page…. I do want to speak about his love for his family & friends. He was a misfit, a genius, an incredible human being. I’ll never forget when he met, “His Julie”. She changed his life. I’ve never seen him look at anyone, the way he looked at her . True love. He was a complicated , caring, hysterical , one of a kind soul. I will love him & miss him forever…. less
Various words I have received from many cherished friends. Thank you.
"For me, Dave was a top bloke. One of a select few I had come to enjoy my time with. He will certainly be missed by us and his memory will live on." - A
"I think of how much fun I... moreVarious words I have received from many cherished friends. Thank you.
"For me, Dave was a top bloke. One of a select few I had come to enjoy my time with. He will certainly be missed by us and his memory will live on." - A
"I think of how much fun I had with you both, and how happy Dave was to share and help when I had f**ked things up." - H
"David was a tremendous guy with a huge heart." - G
"Dave was so special." - M
"Dave was a special guy who will be missed by so many." - K
"Dave will always be remembered as an INCREDIBLE father and husband." - K
"Dave was a wonderful man." - S
"I have only good memories of Dave. He was such a good guy." - J
"Dave was the laughter of the party and a beautiful person to know." - T
"I remember so clearly your Big Gigantic husband who used to collect you from Work and walk out with you like your huge protector that he was." - D
"Dave was such a great guy." - A
"Dave was the most genuine, kind and lovely man with a big heart and big smile." - L
"Dave was such an amazing man." - V
"He was a phenomenal spirit and spectacularly kind. My life is richer for having known him." - C
"There are no words to describe what an amazing guy Dave is." - G
"Dave was that rare bird who could be witty without making you feel cut down. All these years later, I want him to know I was always happy to see him." - J
"Dave was always such a joy to meet." - K
"Dave was always so intensely alive, such a fighter and such a f*cking good teacher." - R
"Such a lovely big bear of a man - humour and vitality emanated from him." - C
"He truly was a great guy and made so many friends from all over." - B
"Dave was so fantastic with a huge heart. Dave was always so much fun & was always a ray of light at camp. His pranks will live on in ILC history, especially the ball & chain." - W
"He was an amazing guy,, I looked up to him lots, ,, really did." - K
"Dave was a lovely man. Kind, funny and interested in getting to know me." - C
"Dave did so much for C and I all those years ago. Those memories are embedded in my heart and still give me joy to this day. Dave was an extraordinary man who embraced life to its fullest. Even though so many years have gone by, Dave and you are part of our family because you gave me your blessing at the most important time in my life." - A
"Dave and I under the cover of darkness, sneaking mattresses into the boat house, me covering for him so he could just spend time with you. He was smitten. that feeling he was so happy and so lucky to have met you. I will miss him so much. My absolute idol when I was 17. All I wanted was to be like him." - J
"My greatest Cageo memory (and there are many) is your wedding day. Never had I seen Dave so happy, and it was one hell of a day/night/morning." - M
"I think Danielle summed up my thoughts of your dear David. He was a gentle giant whose eyes lit up when you were near. I have loved our chats about how you met when we worked together at the RDA and following your posts as your family have developed and grown and the love and admiration shone through in those photos." - W
"Dave was so funny, smart, creative, adventurous, an amazing son, loving husband, best big brother, loyal friend and the best dad ever. He will be missed more than words can say. Please send your love and support to Julie and the kids, and take a page from Dave’s book...he gave all of us so much. Remember him with a smile." - A
"It so sad to think you’re gone, Dave. Yet, I’ve laughed often this weekend thinking back to the hilarious absurdity you orchestrated so effortlessly. An absolute master of shenanigans." - A
"A very wise women told me not to expect anything In life and be grateful for everything. A close friendship is something that should not be taken for granted. 20+ years of memories, crazy antics and fun filled times. My life was shaped by these times and I will be forever grateful that I shared these with you. You will be missed more than you can imagine and although physically you have left us, your smile, laugh and wicked sarcasm will live with us forever.
Rest In Peace brother, I hope someday we get to steal camp signs again." - J
"Anyone who knew Dave will be able to rattle off dozens of stories of fun, antics and love. While his reputation as Official Camp Prankster probably springs to mind first, I remember Dave and Julie being the glue the held us together. When his siblings came to camp they were automatically ILC family because if they were anything like Dave, we were all in. He was super creative and talented, I wanna say he once made a full TV game show set in a day (right?).
One of my favourite memories is staying the weekend with Dave and Julie in Exeter. Right up until I fell over in the street and tore ligaments in my foot, but we were having such a good time we stayed out and I didn’t realise until the morning. Or when a bunch of us met up at the hotel Dave and Julie had been doing a camp recruitment fair at, we laughed all night (until I think they might have asked us to leave).
From this side of the world, it’s hard to comprehend he’s gone. Even harder to imagine what Julie and the Cageao’s are going though. If social media is good for anything, I hope they feel the love from each and every one of us who were fortunate enough to know Dave. He was one of the good ones." - K
"He was a top guy, a true gent, always fun to be around and someone who will be missed by so many." - R
"I don’t know where to start to tell you how deeply saddened I am at the loss of Dave. All I see when I think of him is his great big smile, his genuine warmth of love and friendship. A big gentle man who always had time to engage in warm, witty conversation. Remind Nia and Vinny he was a much loved man who friends and family will always love and never forget." - A
"I can't believe he's gone and my heart breaks for you Julie, Nia, Vinnie, Alice, and the rest of the family. I have so many great memories with Dave. I first met Dave in '93(?) when we were sophomore bunk counselors. He was amazing with the kids. They loved him so much and he made everyone laugh so often. Summer after summer we would connect for the ever-so-unique Sequoia staff experience where so many more memories were made and pranks played. Several summers later and not long after your wedding, Dave was my Best Man at our wedding right there at camp, down at the amphitheater on the lake. It was a very hot and humid Tuesday afternoon and it was THE afternoon activity for the whole camp, July 15, 1997. For Anne and me, camp was 'our' family and Dave was right there helping make it what it was, perfect. That's a great memory. A week before that, Dave coordinated the stag/hen night parties in Oneonta and we all crashed at Alice's house. Alice then hosted the overnight reception party the day of the wedding. And, bless you Alice, you made everyone breakfast after both nights. More great memories. These are some seriously important life memories for me. And yet, I think the memory I'll cherish the most with Dave goes back to that first summer. Before we 'grew up' at camp. At the very beginning. When every so often we would play backgammon on the porch of our sophomore bunk. Just a mellow game together during some downtime after dinner or whenever. Young and carefree, with all of the yet to be found love and life ahead of us. In tears from Syracuse, NY. All my best." - C
"My best friend from youth’s life ended last week.
Dave and I spent endless hours together in some of my most formative years so it’s safe to say that I would not be me without him and without his family.
My memories of Dave involved near constant hilarity. Everything was funny and nothing was out of bounds to be soundly mocked.
He would hate any cliche I may throw out there so close your eyes and think of all the “lives forever in our hearts” and “shall never be forgottens”.
They are all true." - A
"Cageao was a true big brother to me. The amount of memories are countless, but every single one is memorable. From building a treehouse in the middle of the woods, a secret ac in our bunk and trading posts sandwiches under my pillow Cageao always knew how to make us happy. I’ll miss you very much and will always remember you." - J
"He and I stayed in close contact over the years and he was really my one dear friend who persisted through the years. I think it has been 27 years we've known each other. Ask my kids who Pop's friend is? It's Dave. Since he passed I've been surprised by how often I rely on memories we developed together; and by the many behaviors and thoughts I've developed that clearly bear the marks of Dave's influence. I miss him and I know that I'll miss him more and more as time goes on. I fully expected to keep building memories with him. The feeling of powerlessness is immense and I didn't know what to do other than write and tell you something you already know; that Dave was truly unique and he's deeply missed." - E
"It is a very sad and sombre day at school today. It is so clear just how far reaching Dave's presence was felt and his friendship spread. He was so well liked, loved and respected. I still visualise him walking the corridors with his satchel over his shoulder and I never had any trouble working out which classroom he was in at any one time 😊
You always knew when he walked into a room - with his light up eyes and great sense of humour. On his desk he kept so many photos of you all. He worshiped you. You meant everything to him..."Sometimes, only one person is missing, and the whole world seems de-populated." - K
"The bond that Dave and I grew into was so authentic and genuine, with his quick witt & goofiness has yet to be replaced nor would I want that!" - J
"We hit it off immediately. I have never had such an instant connection to a person. I was so looking forward to spending time with my new mate!" - M
"Please can I pass on the condolences of all at Kennet Basketball. Dave brought so many ballers far and wide together from nothing but pure generosity of spirit and love of the game." - M
"Dave brought us ballers together and was always so welcoming & enthusiastic." - J
"He was such a catalyst...for naughtiness and fun and a truly lovely gent to work with." - S
"Like everyone who came across Dave over the years, he was so well liked - enjoyed the weekly basketball session he organised over the past few years. He will be greatly missed." - T
"What a great, fun, brilliant person." - NR
"Dave was one of the hands down funniest people I've ever known." - SG
"He made such an impression on me, just such a wonderful man, and had always hoped we’d meet again one day." - K less
"Dave was the most generous-hearted loving man. He always greeted you with a smile and a twinkle in his eye when interacting with his family.
The love he had for Julie, Nia and Vinnie will stay with them... moreFrom Maureen Stone (Dave's mother-in-law):
"Dave was the most generous-hearted loving man. He always greeted you with a smile and a twinkle in his eye when interacting with his family.
The love he had for Julie, Nia and Vinnie will stay with them always in the memories they created together. In the fun games he invented for the children and the thought and effort he put into ways to celebrate special occasions and much more. These precious memories will stay with them always.
He was very talented and was an excellent teacher and well thought of in his profession. He helped so many people and that will never be forgotten.
Everyone who met Dave appreciated his with and will miss him greatly and remember him with love." less
"Extremely hard to try and put into words what Dave meant to me as a friend.
I first met Dave circa 1998/1999 in the sports hall at St. Peter’s where we were playing Basketball. I knew from that first meeting Dave was someone I... moreFrom Oli Kightley:
"Extremely hard to try and put into words what Dave meant to me as a friend.
I first met Dave circa 1998/1999 in the sports hall at St. Peter’s where we were playing Basketball. I knew from that first meeting Dave was someone I wanted to be friends with. We played together for quite some years, I often picked him up from home, travelled all around Devon and we both had to calm each other down after rowing with the opposition but mainly referees.
I also have fond early memories of going out into Exeter with you and Dave, the endless parties at your houses, the nights I had to crash on the sofa, the ice cubes down my pants, Kristans cocktails, the trips to the kebab shops and of course the flower basket I decided to take for you off your neighbours window cill! You guys always looked after me and they were such great times.
Dave spent some time, along with you of course, talking me into summer camp. That for me was when my life changed. I was lost before that (aged 20) and after 1 summer at ILC I come home, full of confidence, started uni and it set me on my way.
I guess Dave was always going to be my best man after I met Heather and I’ll never get over his surprise when I asked him in your old living room at Powderham Crescent. “You have so many friends, why me?” he said! Quite often brothers ask each other to me their best men and that was what Dave was to me, my big brother. I knew he always had my back and I his. My respect for Dave was immeasurable.
Here are some very random memories of Dave that make me smile, laugh and cry.
The time we thought my car had been stolen in London so took the bus home (it was there all along), him convincing Andy Lombardi to sell me beer my first year at ILC because I was his mate even if I was only 20, shifting that cast iron bath at Woodah Rd, his cooking, the night in the kebab shop when we couldn’t stop laughing, that night he stuck up for you in Weatherspoons after that bloke was rude to you, Tuckers Maltings, his best man speech at my wedding, the effort he put into my stag do, him dressed as Mr T, his horrible Regret drink, Elbow concert, your trips to come stay, Sidmouth Folk Festival (did you say sausage?), watching Blazing Saddles with him, him telling me you guys were moving away, the pranks I helped him with at ILC (the coffin over a bed which he made and the hose pipe above crazy Carl’s bed at 2am), being Harriet’s godfather, there’s so much more too.
I love Dave and I’ll eternally miss him but also be so grateful for that 1 fateful meeting we had that night playing basketball because without that, I’m convinced my life now would be so different. That’s when you know you’re special, when you impact people’s lives in such a way ♥️ less
Hello Vinnie and Nia – I’m Rosie.
I knew your dad as a teaching colleague and as a friend.
Children adored him and he was a truly brilliant teacher – and I say that with years of teaching experience. I know that many of his pupils (and... moreHello Vinnie and Nia – I’m Rosie.
I knew your dad as a teaching colleague and as a friend.
Children adored him and he was a truly brilliant teacher – and I say that with years of teaching experience. I know that many of his pupils (and colleagues) stayed in contact to share successes and ask advice after they left his class, or he left their school – which is by far the highest praise you can receive as a teacher. He was uber cool and had a wicked sense of humour. But he had very high standards and expectations from pupils and from his department staff alike. He was my ‘Head of English’ and my teaching improved a great deal under his guidance – through his advice and just through watching him teach.
We also kept each other sane as we stood outside on playground duty or suffered a school trip, sharing jokes and jibes that were carefully calculated to be extremely rude but just subtle enough to go over the pupils’ heads. His World Book Day costumes were always a sight to see. We laughed and moaned about the job, but in the classroom he saw potential in every child. In this light, he was even positive enough to ask me to help at a basketball club he started – him being him, he just didn’t see the issues I saw with my complete ignorance of the rules or lack of athletic prowess – he didn’t judge, just saw fun and potential!
You could always expect something interesting when you went into Mr Cageao’s classroom. Children were desperate to be put in his form in Year 6. Many times on my arrival, I was graced with the wise mantra from ‘Conan the Barbarian’:
Mr Cageao: "What is best in life?"
Year 6 Barbarians: “To crush your enemies, see them driven before you, and to hear the lamentation of their women!”
Yup… Education at its finest! 😉
Among many things, we directed a musical together, and I have never worked with anyone so giving and supportive in that setting. He did not want glory or control, but worked his socks off in the background to make things brilliant for the kids. Two of the photos I have posted show him standing with me on the grass outside school with the children, at the after-show party. Their faces full of excitement and enthusiasm towards him is the best example I could find to show how much all his pupils have respected him, loved him and just thrived in his care. It makes me so proud to have worked with him.
Your dad was my ‘referee’ for job applications for years, because I knew that he thoroughly understood teaching and would represent the short few years we so enjoyed teaching together with his energy and professional expertise.
He was my unofficial mentor (I don’t know if he realised this) and I often asked him questions about teaching and career choices – to which his usual response was to do what felt right for me, instead of worrying about the fancy reputation of the school or a higher wage. Your mum and dad came to share my wedding (photo) and he was so happy for me to find love. His focus was all about family and quality of life – and he was bursting with pride and happiness with his family.
And family – what a family. His love for your mum was clearly profound. He wanted you two children so very badly and when you arrived he shone like a beacon of happiness and pride. Even from a distance (you were born after we parted schools) he radiated profound love, and with your mum you formed a perfectly beaming threesome, then a foursome family.
He has touched so many lives so strongly, through friendship, teaching and helping both children and adults thrive and find their strengths - through his sheer force of love, his enormous sense of humour and in so many other ways. There is so very much of him spread around the world, held in people’s hearts and memories.
And I know that his love for you hasn’t stopped. It simply couldn’t. It is too, too strong. less
I spent the last week re-reading hundreds of emails that included commentary from Dave. The gift that I was left with is laughter. Serious laughter brought on by Daves wicked sense of humor and the extreme nature of the dialog. All of these exchanges... moreI spent the last week re-reading hundreds of emails that included commentary from Dave. The gift that I was left with is laughter. Serious laughter brought on by Daves wicked sense of humor and the extreme nature of the dialog. All of these exchanges included my brother and sister-in-law, Erik and Elaina. As I write this I am remembering all the times that I had a smile on my face for days or laughed out loud in reading Daves comments. The subject of the last email I received was in response to my brothers mathematical analysis of the impact of the pandemic. Dave had the following advice:
"I have read that if you keep a hot dog slathered in ketchup and mustard (in the bun) in each of your Jnco jeans front pockets, and run around viciously attacking people with your steel lunchbox, you will be protected from the virus.
I will send a demonstrative video soon. Just gotta get the time machine humming so I can pop back to the 90’s to get some Jnco jeans from JC Penney."
I was afforded the honor of knowing Dave and Julie only because of Erik and Elainas close friendship with them. I am deeply sorry for the loss that all of his many friends and family are experiencing. I think the only comfort can be found in remembering the positive impact that Dave had on so many lives. My life has certainly been enriched and for this, I am grateful.
I worked with Dave and Julie at Camp Sequoia way back in 1995 and I remember a group of us visiting his family home to celebrate his birthday at some point. From memory I think he signed my shirt "How did you get a Counselor's shirt, you limey... moreI worked with Dave and Julie at Camp Sequoia way back in 1995 and I remember a group of us visiting his family home to celebrate his birthday at some point. From memory I think he signed my shirt "How did you get a Counselor's shirt, you limey ****?" at the end of the summer (in an affectionate way of course!)
I think Dave and Julie had got together the previous summer, and they were probably the first couple of "my age" where I can remember thinking that they were clearly made for each other. It radiated from them both even then.
We kept in touch off and on over the years (decades!) and I was absolutely delighted for them both when their family grew not just once, but twice - who doesn't love it when good things happen to good people?
I met up with Dave, Julie and Nia in London in Novermber 2015 to go and see his brother Nick's fantastic band Mutoid Man at the Camden Underworld (and felt like a fool when I asked Dave if I would have maybe met Nick at his birthday party...."Maybe - but he would have been about 3 years old!")
Dave and Julie took it in turns to babysit Nia back at their hotel and watch the band and I remember how proud Dave was of his little brother - staring up at him raging away on stage with that huge, unforgettable Cageao smile on his face. After the gig I took them both for a kebab at Woody's over the road from the venue and then I took this amazing photograph of them both before we all went our separate ways.
I was in touch with both Dave and Julie at the beginning of the year, and I was - and am - beyond devastated to hear that we had lost him. Even as the young man I first met 26 years ago, he was a genuinely lovely (and loveable) person who always seemed to inspire happiness in those around him, and I always held him in great regard and affection.
My love and deepest sympathies to Julie, Nia, Vinnie, Nick and everyone else who loved him as I did.
RIP to my friend Dave Cageao
From the limey ****
xxxx less
I don’t know what to say or how to put my feelings into words. I think you can probably understand that feeling right now. I have known Julie since school and it has been so lovely to be part of her life all of these years. To meet the big ole American... moreI don’t know what to say or how to put my feelings into words. I think you can probably understand that feeling right now. I have known Julie since school and it has been so lovely to be part of her life all of these years. To meet the big ole American hunk she met at camp and to welcome Nia and Vinnie into the world and watch them become amazing human beings. I was lucky enough to attend the wedding and it was a beautiful day and clear they were a perfect match. It is a credit to both Julie and Dave that they have such an amazing network of family and friends all over the world - something I feel extremely grateful for right now. Together we can help support Julie, Nia and Vinnie in trying to move forward with their lives with a massive piece of their jigsaw puzzle missing. These photos remind me of good, happy times - all seem to have alcohol involved but that will be my bad influence!! We will miss you Dave. Andy will definitely miss talking about horror films with you - and also your filthy sense of humour, which matched his perfectly!! X less
Dave, although I might not have seen you for some years I have fond memories of the times we shared together with your beautiful wife Julie. You used to make me laugh how you would become more offensive as the drinks flowed and the evening went on and... moreDave, although I might not have seen you for some years I have fond memories of the times we shared together with your beautiful wife Julie. You used to make me laugh how you would become more offensive as the drinks flowed and the evening went on and Julie would have to call you by your full name!! You were always so welcoming and generous especially when hosting many a Thanksgiving, that it is awful to think of you suffering. RIP Dave and love to you Julie, Nia and Vinnie xxx less
When I think of Dave, I think of Dave and Julie. Every time I saw Dave, he was always the same – a bright smile saying ‘hey Jane’. He was genuine, kind, great fun, witty, intelligent, good looking and an all round great guy. I think of his love for... moreWhen I think of Dave, I think of Dave and Julie. Every time I saw Dave, he was always the same – a bright smile saying ‘hey Jane’. He was genuine, kind, great fun, witty, intelligent, good looking and an all round great guy. I think of his love for Julie and what a great couple they were, so well suited and happy for all those years from such a young age. The would host so many great parties and would always be relaxed, friendly and generous and make you feel at home. Dave made the best pancakes I’ve ever eaten and I managed to eat more than 10 they were so good! I remember how Dave contacted all Julie’s friends so he could put together a special message for her 40th birthday. He thought so carefully about the music choices and looked so proud to play it to her in front of her friends at her party. It was such a lovely thing to do. He’d be the life and soul of a group and brought people together in a really relaxed and fun kind of way. I have great memories of him letting off fireworks, teaching us the jagermeister song and wearing fancy dress costumes, always with Julie sharing the fun and humour. He seemed to be able to turn his hand to anything and do it with great energy and zest for life. I think how happy they both were when they had their long awaited babies and what a great dad he was. It is incomprehensible to think he is no longer with us and the world is a worse place for it. I can only imagine the pain and loss felt by Julie, his children and his family. He was so loved and will be hugely missed. RIP lovely Dave x less
The first picture is us with almost all of the bunk on a trip to Montreal. Dave was not too happy in the pic because I think he had learned that our co-counselor got fired that day. Despite that day, we had a great group of kids that... moreAnd a few more.....
The first picture is us with almost all of the bunk on a trip to Montreal. Dave was not too happy in the pic because I think he had learned that our co-counselor got fired that day. Despite that day, we had a great group of kids that year, a combination of both of our bunks into 1 super big bunk that was housed in a double bunk at the furthest point possible on boys side. It was our own little world where we were, and it was fantastic.
Picture 2 is THE infamous Powder Blue Plymouth Reliant in all its glory.....that car played a pivotal role (in my eyes at least) in the development of Dave & Julie's relationship - many date nights, days off, and trips into town together in this beautiful vehicle.....
Picture 3 is was taken when Dave & Julie visited Washington DC in 2011.... ❤ less
I have many fond memories of Dave through our years working together at Camp Sequoia where we were both counselors in the same division for 5 years and then co-counselors for 1 year. He was a great guy and friend, right... moreHello Julie, Nia, and Vinnie-
I have many fond memories of Dave through our years working together at Camp Sequoia where we were both counselors in the same division for 5 years and then co-counselors for 1 year. He was a great guy and friend, right from the beginning. All of the kids in his bunk simply adored him and looked up to him....
Here are some memories I have of Dave/with Dave through the years:
- I remember Dave came into camp and was bragging that he was a walk-on for the North Carolina Tar Heels Basketball Team. He tried backing up his talk on the court, but we all figured it out soon enough.
- We played quite a bit of backgammon during those summers. And we did it by chewing on some David Sunflower Seeds. The grounds outside our porches were always littered with empty shells, even though there was no food allowed on campus.
- Dave would always ask repeatedly to borrow my car (Powder Blue Plymouth Reliant) so he could take Julie out on dates, days off, and even just to go into town on a period off. I pretty much usually always said yes, and was quite happy that my car came back with a pretty full tank of gas and no scratches on it.
- That first year in 1993, us counselors had to lead an evening activity. I chose to do Kickball because how hard is it to get 60 6-7 year old boys and girls to play kickball? Well the night did not go so well and Dave pretty much called it a debacle. We had a quote board in our boys side HC, and Dave commemorated my evening activity failure for the rest of boys side to see for years to come - "July 3, 1993 - The First Annual Ziggy Kickball Debacle"
- Nickames - besides Cags, he was also dubbed Mr. Barcode by someone due to the barcode tattoo he had on his ankle.
- Witnessing some of the pranks he pulled off in camp - I was glad I was never on the receiving end of those.
- Dodgeball on rainy days was always a favorite game of his - we had some battles between our bunks and always loved teaming up for counselors vs campers
- Dave was very creative and artistic - always had a knack at building and creating. I think he built some wooden chairs at camp, and we have all seen the amazing doll houses he built in the woodshop a few years ago.
- Sitting on stage with Dave as a Judge during our last year at camp during the end of color war for the sing. We had each other cracking up the whole time making jokes
- I remember towards the end of maybe the summer of 1993, Dave had told me how he found such an amazing, perfect woman and that he was in love. He was right and the love between Dave and Julie blossomed over the next few years and eventually led to them getting married.....
- Dave & Julie's wedding: Was so happy to be able to attend that momentous occassion, which I believe was held at Dave's parents house. It was a beautiful day and weekend. filled with love and laughter. We got to witness two people who loved each other dearly, exchange marriage vows.
- One of my favorite videos that Dave posted on Facebook was where he taught Nia to pick my picture out from the holiday card we sent that was on their fridge. I loved that video and watched it countless times, it was so adorable (I think that was end of 2015?)
- Meeting up with Dave & Julie in Washington DC during December 2011 when they were doing one of their US Tours. We met at a hotel in DC near the Capitol at one of the bars close to the entrance. I remember seeing both Dave and Julie and giving them great big hugs. At that point, it was about 13 years since we had last seen each other. We had a drink, talked, and then went to dinner where we met up with another former Sequoian counselor. We ate dinner and I shared some parenting stories as I had a 1 year old at the time, we reminisced a lot about camp telling stories and sharing memories and laughing a lot.
I think of Dave laughing and joking at a BBQ in the back garden of the house in Exeter. The photos of Dave as a camp counsellor that always made me smile.
Being a friend of Julie I was invited to the grand 40th birthday celebrations and witnessed the... moreI think of Dave laughing and joking at a BBQ in the back garden of the house in Exeter. The photos of Dave as a camp counsellor that always made me smile.
Being a friend of Julie I was invited to the grand 40th birthday celebrations and witnessed the love and thought that went into their relationship.
It is very hard to lose someone you love through illness but what we always have is how they made us feel. less
We met through me working with your amazing wife. You were childhood sweethearts and every time we saw you together you always seemed so much in love, always smiling and never a bad word to say about anyone. You were a gentle giant. I always hoped our... moreWe met through me working with your amazing wife. You were childhood sweethearts and every time we saw you together you always seemed so much in love, always smiling and never a bad word to say about anyone. You were a gentle giant. I always hoped our relationship would be as strong as yours. You were always so thoughtful and the video you made for Julies 40th had us all laughing and crying.
Ill never forget the day you came into work on Julies last day before her maternity leave. You two were made to be parents and after all your struggles everyone was overwhelmed with joy for you both, everyone could see the delight in your eyes of finally becoming a mummy and daddy.
Nia and Vinnie you will always be their precious babies and even though daddy's not here next to you I'm sure he will always be looking down at you and be so proud of everything you do in life. You are loved so much by mummy and daddy and that will never go away and hopefully you can treasure all the happy memories you have made together. You have a wonderful, strong, courageous mummy who I know will help you in life and remind you of your daddy, he was loved by many people so will never be forgotten.
I can't begin to imagine what you are all going through right now but I hope it gives you some comfort to know how much love and friendship is around you, we here to support you if you need it at ANYTIME day or night.
Sending you all BIG HUGS
Liam, Hay and Jasper xx
Ps I still cant believe he made that amazing fairy house for you Nia, not once but twice less
Hello Julie, Nia, and Vinnie-
I was lucky to meet Dave in the Summer of 1993 at Camp Sequoia, which was located in Rock Hill NY. We were counselors in the same division for 5 years, and co-counselors for 1 year. I have many of fond memories of Dave... moreHello Julie, Nia, and Vinnie-
I was lucky to meet Dave in the Summer of 1993 at Camp Sequoia, which was located in Rock Hill NY. We were counselors in the same division for 5 years, and co-counselors for 1 year. I have many of fond memories of Dave during our years together. He was a great friend to me and an amazing counselor to the kids in his bunk (and in our division). He was super smart, creative, and talented in pretty much everything he touched.
I cannot forget about the early days of when Dave and Julie were dating, I got many, many, many requests to borrow my car (The powder blue Plymouth Reliant). I can't even count how many times Dave pleaded with me to take my car in order to take Julie out on a date or maybe even a day off, or even just to run into town on a period off together.....I am glad that my car was able to play such a pivotal role in their relationship....I must also say that the car was always returned to me without any scratches on it and with ample gas in the tank too! I remember Dave telling me how much in love he was with Julie. He said she was just an amazing person and how she was the perfect girl for him. He was absolutely right, and their relationship blossomed in the following years at camp (and after). Eventually that led to Dave and Julie's wedding, which I believe was hosted at Dave's parents house. It was an honor to attend their wedding and witness 2 people who loved each other dearly exchange their marriage vows.
I am also quite thankful I got to meet up with Dave and Julie during one of their US trips in Washington DC in December 2011. At that point, it had been 13 years since we saw each other. We met at a hotel near the Capitol and had a drink before going to dinner. We traded old camp stories, and reminisced about old times. Lots of smiles and laughs at that meal for sure. Over the years, we would also trade some messages back and forth about babies and we would send holiday cards to each other too. One of my favorite videos that Dave posted online is where Dave taught Nia to pick me out of our holiday card that was on their fridge. I believe I watched and re-watched that video countless times because it was just so adorable.
Where to start Julie , nia and Vinnie , the whackiest guy I’ve ever met always the party organiser/ organisers ever , the memories that everyone I know had the best times , also so generous and grateful xxx love you ya big jobby xxx
Richard Straus Julie, Nia and Vinnie,
I met your Daddy a long time ago when we were just about to start high school. I had just moved from New York City to a little town upstate NY where your Dad grew up. Many of the other kids didn't say much to me because I was the... moreJulie, Nia and Vinnie,
I met your Daddy a long time ago when we were just about to start high school. I had just moved from New York City to a little town upstate NY where your Dad grew up. Many of the other kids didn't say much to me because I was the new kid. But not your Dad. He introduced me to his friends and let me in on all his jokes and pranks, which were many.
From then on, we were like a team. Best of friends. We spent time together making videos and movies for school and fun. We played sports together. We watched out for each other. We made so many memories I cannot list them here.
And it didn't stop after high school. We continues our reign of awesomeness through college and into adult life. That's when your Dad met your Mom.
The first time I met her i don't think we were much older than 19 or 20 years old. I knew instantly Dave had found a gem and she was the perfect girl for him. They completed each other. I was very happy to see the life they made together. I was honored to be chosen... less
Benedict VessaI’m already crying and I haven’t written a word. Dave was a counselor in the bunk next to mine. He was loud, he was obnoxious and he was wonderful. I spent every day off with him, and whether we watched movies in Middletown or skunk racing at the... moreI’m already crying and I haven’t written a word. Dave was a counselor in the bunk next to mine. He was loud, he was obnoxious and he was wonderful. I spent every day off with him, and whether we watched movies in Middletown or skunk racing at the Ulster County fair, the day was always awesome. When I think of those camp years, the first person I think about is David Cageao, and I smile. He was my buddy, a dear friend and I’m heartbroken.
Dear Dave, Julie, Nia and Vinnie (The Cageaos, I still don’t know if I pronounce your name right??!) . Thank you for the fun times we have shared. Your friendship means so much to us and we are very grateful to have gotten to know you all. We have... moreDear Dave, Julie, Nia and Vinnie (The Cageaos, I still don’t know if I pronounce your name right??!) . Thank you for the fun times we have shared. Your friendship means so much to us and we are very grateful to have gotten to know you all. We have enjoyed many walks exploring, celebrating birthdays at the farm and a beach trip. We’ve even had some dodgy fireworks for Thanksgiving, thanks Dave!! Of course we can’t leave out the boys sandwich banter 😆 Never will we forget meeting you, Dave you had a great smile and manner. Much love to you all. The Hicksons xxxx less
Dear nia and vinnie,, I doubt you'll ever know who I am, but I knew your dad a long long time ago. Not too well, but we'll enough to know he was one of the best guys I'd met ever. He never said a bad thing about anyone and always helped anyone and always... moreDear nia and vinnie,, I doubt you'll ever know who I am, but I knew your dad a long long time ago. Not too well, but we'll enough to know he was one of the best guys I'd met ever. He never said a bad thing about anyone and always helped anyone and always had a smile. He was one of those guys who anyone was happy to be around. And I'm positive he loved you guys so so much. But he was poorly. And he had to go to Heaven. But he'll always be with you guys, because he is you guys, forever. And ps, you are lucky you got the mum you got, she will look after you guys, and always be there for you. She's ultra tough, and never let anything hurt you two. I hope you two turn out as amazing as your dad was. I'm sure you will. less
Joshua GoldsteinI will greatly miss Dave. He was my role model when I was 17-19. I wanted to be just like him. I was his junior counselor at camp, then co counselor. We were fast friends. When he was dating Julie, I would cover for him, bring items to the boathouse so... moreI will greatly miss Dave. He was my role model when I was 17-19. I wanted to be just like him. I was his junior counselor at camp, then co counselor. We were fast friends. When he was dating Julie, I would cover for him, bring items to the boathouse so they could spend time together. I know our campers looked up to him. He was a teacher and friend. He never stopped texting and talking no matter how far away. I admired his freedom and his attitude. I copied my own personality after him. I am going to miss everything about him. less
I don’t even know where to begin with my favorite memories of Dave. There was the time as kids he tried to convince Caroline and I that he had caviar for us (fish eggs from a trout he caught in a nearby pond)…the time he had us dig a swear hole in... moreI don’t even know where to begin with my favorite memories of Dave. There was the time as kids he tried to convince Caroline and I that he had caviar for us (fish eggs from a trout he caught in a nearby pond)…the time he had us dig a swear hole in the woods behind our house (that was the only place we could swear and not get in trouble - “just shout it into the swear hole”)… the time he took us out bat hunting with a fishing net and a paper bag…. Or the time that he made me sit in the corner of our creepy basement to recreate a scene from Silence of the Lambs for his PSA on littering. There were the ridiculously dangerous rides in “Club Cageao” that were always as fun as they were terrifying.
Aside from all of the laughter he brought to us, he also had a sensitive side. I remember how proud he looked walking me down the aisle and how overjoyed he was for me when I told him I was pregnant the first time even though he and Julie were struggling to have their own baby. He told me how proud he was of me for going back to school and always encouraged me to share my burdens with him and not try to carry it all myself. I wish he was able to do the same with me.
My heart is absolutely shattered that he’s no longer here with us. The world was a better place with him in it. I will make sure Nia and Vinnie never forget what an incredible human being you were, Dave. I love and miss you more than you’ll ever know. less