Mr. David Anson Naar died on July 3, 2022, at his home on Nassawadox Creek. David was born in 1931 in Yonkers, N.Y., to Joseph Lennox Naar and Anne Eigenrauch Naar. Growing up in Ossining, N.Y., playing in the woods and Croton River and Hudson River, he acquired lifelong loves of the outdoors, boats, and animals and was almost never without a boat (or boats) and a dog. David also manifested an early talent for classical piano and later jazz improvisation.
At age 10, David saw his first darkroom and became fascinated with photography. His father, editor of the local newspaper, gave him his first shot at news photography. Here on the Eastern Shore, David continued to photograph its waters, landscape, buildings, and boats, capturing the same themes in acrylic and watercolor. He taught photography at ESO and to private students.
For kids growing up in New York in the 1940s, World War II was a living presence. Patriotism ran high, and military paraphernalia were readily available and responsible for a number of adventures and mishaps by David and his buddies. In December 1948, just short of his 18th birthday, David enlisted in the Army and was assigned to the 3rd division, 35th Artillery. Outfitted only with summer gear, they made an amphibious LST landing at Wonson North Korea in December 1950. As a half track squad leader, that Christmas he participated in the famous frozen Chozin retreat maneuver, followed in 1951 by long patrols up and down North Korea. All his life, David vividly remembered the cold and wind of North Korea, the long lines of refugees carrying all their possessions on their backs, and the bravery and resilience of Korean soldiers on both sides. Later he wrote extensively about his Korean experience which drastically changed his views of the military, war, and man’s place on this Earth.
Upon return and honorable discharge from the Army, David worked at various trades, joining NY Telephone in 1955 and continuing there as an outside plant engineer for 17 years. At age 57, he joined the Peace Corps and spent two years in Gabon, West Africa.
Marrying his third wife, Marion, in 1990 they moved to the Eastern Shore a few years later with schooner Yemanja, beloved former Harlem River launch Queenie, and dog Two Socks. Here David built workboat models for the Cape Charles Museum, a mini tug, and rowboats for his grandchildren.
David was predeceased by two brothers, Joseph and twin Frank, and is survived by his brother, Thomas, of Ossining; wife, Marion; daughter, Michele, from his first marriage and her husband, Gregl granddaughter, Rachel; stepchildren, Michael Madrid and Tanya Madrid, along with their families, including four grandchildren. All adored Grandpa Dave for his many skills and stories of his adventures and animals.
By wish of the family, no formal public service is planned.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.doughtyfuneralhome.com
