Obituary of David Michael Saylor

David Michael Saylor 3/26/1956-7/3/2023 (67) of Tacoma, Washington, lost his life after being hit head-on by a drunk driver. He will be deeply missed by his daughters Jamie Saylor, Amy Stout (Matt), Stacey Lind, and son Michael Walsborn (Erin); siblings Judy Murphy, Joanne Urquhart (Tom), and Dick Saylor (Patty); grandchildren Jordan, Walker 
(Crysta), Grace, and Camden; and great-grandchild Laramie. David was also a proud uncle to Cindy and Jimmy Saylor, Tracy and Shawn Murphy, Adrian and Melissa Urquhart, and Joshua Saylor. Over the years he had many bonus nieces and nephews, as well as great-nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, Richard and Celia Saylor, younger brother Danny, and grandson Dean Michael. 
A true Saylor man, David was a "jack of all trades," but his craftsmanship as an artisan painter is what set him apart. David worked for Helmer Pacific for many years, where he painted "The Street of Dreams," leaving his artistic touch on each of those beautiful homes. He even worked on the house of actor and comedian Harry Anderson ("Night Court") and helped him build the secret entrance to his room full of magic tricks. 
From his early years, David was captivated by the idea of racing cars, and the thrill of the track ignited his adventurous spirit. He started racing in the Hobby Stock class in 1979. Over the next decade, he got better and so did his cars. He finished his racing career in the Late Model Super Stock class in 1989, with the most beautiful car on the track. Spanaway Speedway was his home track, where he raced alongside his brothers and nephew and made many friends that became family. 
David's many hobbies included fishing, camping, riding dirt bikes, and karaoke. He had a love for music of many genres, but classic rock was his favorite. David especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends bonding over a meal he had prepared. Taking after his mother just like his siblings, he also had a deep love for animals, taking in any strays that needed love and a home. 
David was always very generous and down to earth. He would stop to help a stranger broken down with car troubles or give food or money to others in need when he could. Although David often thought of himself as the black sheep or outsider, those closest to him will remember his quick wit and legendary sense of humor. He was never short on one-liners. David's presence had a profound impact on the lives of his family and friends, who will forever remember his infectious humor, generosity, and reliability. The memories and lessons he shared were truly unmatched and will be treasured in our heart. 
Whether we called you David, Dave, Saylor, Dad, Grandpa, Son, Brother, Uncle, or Friend ("Hey old buddy"), you were always a great listener with a voice of reason that everyone will miss. 
No longer by our side, but forever in our hearts. 
A Celebration of Life will be held where friends and family will come together during this time of reflection and remembrance to honor the remarkable man that David was. Please join us at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 27, 2023, at Lemay's Car Museum, 2702 East D St., Tacoma, Washington 98421.