Phoenix, Ore., — A Phoenix High School graduate with a promising future in music, is being embraced by his friends and his former classmates after his tragic death last week in Atlanta, Georgia.
David Wesley graduated from Phoenix High school just two years ago, and recently moved to Atlanta to be with his girlfriend while saving up for school.
Those who knew David Wesley will tell you how his strong talent and passion for music made a big impression on them.
“He always one of those students who was always motivated to not just be excellent himself but to help other kids be the best they can be.” said his former band teacher, Mike Deroest.
His talent caught our attention when we featured him on NBC5 News three years ago.
“I love jazz, since I was little my dream has been to be the solo sax guy on SNL, just rippin away” said Wesley.
A talent which took him to the Berkelee School of Music in Boston in 2013 when he was just a junior in the band at Phoenix High School.
“Berkelee College is for the best of the best, I just want to do this for the rest of my life” said Wesley.
But that bright future ahead of him was tragically cut short last week when he was struck by a car while changing his tire in Atlanta.
“It’s unreal almost, he was so talented and gifted and he so much left to do, he should have been able to finish what he started.” said his friend Darby Spence.
Mike Deroest, Wesley’s band teacher of seven years says his students, and Wesley’s fellow band members are having a difficult time coping with news of his death.
“Even the kids who spent just a little bit of time with him, its been a really big impact for them. a lot of sadness a lot of heartbreak.”
But they say the impression he made in life and in the music he enjoyed playing, will never be forgotten.
A celebration of David’s life will be held next Friday the 29th at Blue Heron Park in Phoenix at 6 pm, anyone is welcome to come.
The family has also set up a foundation in his name to help kids participate in music, just go to www.davidwesleyfoundation.org
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